The Institute of Professional Editors (IPEd) is pleased to announce that Dr Catherine Macdonald AE has been appointed Chair of the Board following the 2025 AGM on Monday 10 November.

Catherine has been on the Editors Western Australia committee since 2018, initially as branch newsletter editor, then as the delegate to the Accreditation Board. For the past 5 years, Catherine has been the WA Director on the IPEd Board.

Catherine replaces Stephanie Holt AE, who was appointed to the role of chair in November 2023.

“In my role as Chair of the IPEd Board, I’m hoping to follow the theme of the 2025 IPEd conference, ‘editors as changemakers’, and help bring about some long-needed changes to IPEd as it approaches its tenth year in 2026,” Catherine said.

“As the first IPEd Board Chair from Western Australia, I’m acutely aware of how important it is that our branches (and their histories) are recognised, while also nurturing a stronger sense of belonging across IPEd.

“My other aim is to help build IPEd’s longer-term financial strength so that we can continue to offer services that genuinely support our members.”

Catherine came to professional editing after a career in the Australian Diplomatic Service and consulting in the international community development field. She now combines her editing work with her consulting, often editing/rewriting social impact assessment and community development reports as the only native English speaker in a local research team. She is a recognised expert on socially responsible mining practices and has authored several practical guidance publications on that theme. Catherine has been a member of IPEd since 2017, and an accredited editor since 2018.

IPEd CEO Karen Lee warmly welcomed Catherine to the role of Chair.

“Catherine’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for our profession. Her governance experience, clarity of vision and collaborative leadership will ensure IPEd is well positioned for the future. She brings a strong strategic perspective and a keen understanding of what the organisation needs to grow and thrive. I look forward to working closely with her as we drive the next phase of growth and innovation for our members and for the profession.”

Karen also expressed her gratitude to outgoing Chair, Stephanie.

“Stephanie has brought heart, warmth and a clear commitment to members throughout her time as Chair. Her advocacy for the profession has been considered and grounded in genuine care for the work we do. I thank her for the contribution she has made to the role. I also want to acknowledge the commitment she has shown over many years to the Victorian branch and the numerous committees she has served on, as well as the contribution she continues to make. We look forward to continuing to work with her.”

Stephanie said she was grateful for the support of members and IPEd staff and volunteers during her tenure.

“It has been a privilege to serve IPEd on the Board as Deputy Chair and Chair. IPEd is lucky in having an engaged and passionate membership who care about their profession and value IPEd’s role and work. The current Board under its new chair brings significant skill and commitment to pursue an ambitious program for IPEd as it heads into its tenth year.”