FSPA’s New Communications Hire: Championing UK Sports and Play

• Posted on Jul 18, 2016

The Federation of Sports and Play Associations today announces that Mary Lubrano has been hired as the organisation’s first Communications Manager. The role was created to lead the upcoming rebrand of the Federation and embody its mission to support and champion the UK Sports and Play industries into the future.

“We’re delighted to welcome Mary to the team,” says Jane Montgomery, Managing Director. “Her Communications experience, particularly in the charity and not-for-profit sectors, means that we’re looking forward to seeing some exciting changes. Mary will be developing a new Communications strategy, beginning with the re-brand, and covering everything from the website and social media to press coverage and publications.”

“I’m thrilled to be the Federation’s first Communications Manager.” says Mary. “The FSPA plays a vital role for its member Associations and for the Sports and Play industry as a whole. The challenge going forward is to make sure its distinct voice is heard in the vast sea of media noise out there. So alongside my colleagues, I’ll be devising a strategy which capitalises on its unique strength as the champion of UK Sports and Play.

“It’s great to be joining the team at this point in time. Our Communications will truly reflect what the Federation does, to further raise its profile and promote its members. I want people to engage with us so that current and prospective members, retailers, partner organisations and the wider industry know what we can do for them and what we stand for.

“The Federation is about driving quality throughout the industry for the benefit of its members and the industry as a whole, having its finger on the pulse as regards future challenges and opportunities and being an authoritative and up-to-date resource for sports and play businesses. But it’s also important to communicate the organisation’s human face! This is no tired, stuffy federation – it’s a dynamic, pro-active organisation dedicated to promoting the best interests of the industry.

“Sport and play is integral to all our lives,” adds Mary. “We’re learning all the time just how vital it is to our physical and mental health and its profound benefits to society as a whole. I’ve learnt so much about the importance of sport and exercise, first through my children’s activities and now as a keen (though not very proficient!) runner myself. I can honestly say it’s changed my life and it’s a privilege to work for an organisation which has sport and play at its heart.”

The FSPA promotes the benefits of physical activity across its 14 trade associations and approximately 500 member companies within the UK sports and play sectors. FSPA member Associations include; API, APSA, BAGCC, BASES, BGIA, BRTMA, CMAE, EGIA, GCA, FEPI, PPA, SGIA, SPE and UKGCOA.