FESPA UK appoints Sarah Lees as Next Gen ambassador

FESPA UK has announced the appointment of Sarah Lees as its Next Generation ambassador, in recognition of her commitment and continued support for the Association's Next Generation initiative.

Next Generation is FESPA UK's programme designed to support young people starting out in the print or signage industry by providing a network of like-minded individuals and mentors where they can learn, develop, and have a safe space to ask questions.

The programme is open not only to FESPA UK members but to anyone aged 18 to 30 working in the print, signage, or graphics industry.

Sarah Lees, who is head of marketing and communications at Business Compass Finance, has been involved with the initiative as an advocate since its early development, serving as a mentor from the very beginning of the Next Generation programme.

Over the past four years, she has played a key role in supporting its growth, sharing her industry experience, and helping to inspire and guide emerging talent across the print, signage, and graphics sectors.

In addition, Sarah has acted as a mentor to Molly Jackson, the head of Next Generation and marketing manager at FESPA UK, working closely with her and the Next Generation committee throughout the evolution of the project.

The new role for Lees reflects a more strategic and visible level of involvement, focused on strengthening engagement within the online community, raising awareness across the industry, and acting as a respected senior voice representing the programme.

Speaking about Lees’ appointment, Jackson says: "Sarah has been a supporter of the Next Generation initiative from the very beginning. She then became a mentor and now seeing her step into the role of ambassador is a huge moment.

“She has been an inspiration to me and many others and her guidance, encouragement, and belief in young talent have helped shape Next Generation into what it is today. Having her in this ambassador role elevates her involvement even further, and I am incredibly proud to continue working alongside her."

Lees adds: "I'm excited and honestly quite humbled to have been asked to support the FESPA UK Next Generation community as an ambassador.

“For me, it's about encouraging and empowering young people within our industry to build strong networks, feel more visible, share ideas, and stay excited about a future in print, signage, and graphics."