As applications open for the next Vice President of the IPS, current Vice President Kerry Holden is encouraging eligible members to consider putting themselves forward for one of the Society’s most rewarding leadership opportunities.
After serving alongside IPS President Jude Robinson for the past two years, Kerry will become IPS President in September. Looking back on her time as Vice President, she sums up the experience in three words:
“Collaboration. Friendship. Impactful.”
For Kerry, those words reflect not only the role itself, but the relationships she’s built and the opportunity to help shape the future of the Society.
One of her proudest memories was hearing Jude Robinson’s opening address at IP2025. “It really captured what the Society stands for, with people absolutely at the core of everything we do. It reflected the strength of our profession and the importance of staying connected to our members. It also set out what Jude and I wanted to achieve together over the following two years.”
Working alongside Jude has been one of the highlights of Kerry’s time as Vice President, developing both a strong professional partnership and a lasting friendship. Together, they have made it a priority to meet members at conference, branch and Special Interest Group events, as well as through President drop-in sessions.
“Those conversations matter because we’ve been able to take what we’ve heard and genuinely use it to shape and influence the Society.”
She also points to the recent member survey and focus groups as an important example of member voices shaping the future of IPS. “The insights we’ve gathered will play a key role in shaping the Society’s direction for 2026–2027, ensuring it reflects what our members need and value most.”
Looking back, Kerry says one of the biggest surprises was just how much the role helped her grow. “You go in thinking about what you can contribute, but you come out with a much broader perspective nationally, strategically and in terms of leadership.”
Alongside developing new leadership skills, Kerry says the relationships she has built across the profession have been invaluable. “The relationships and friendships you develop are so important. What really stands out is the strength of connection with the President, Board members, the wider Society and the profession. Those relationships are what enable you to lead well and stay grounded in what matters.”
For Kerry, one of the greatest benefits of being Vice President has been the opportunity to make a difference beyond her own organisation. The role provides a platform to influence conversations across the profession while bringing new ideas and learning back into local services.
As she explains: “You gain a platform to shape conversations at a national and international level, connect with passionate professionals and bring that learning back into your own organisation to improve practice. It’s a real two-way benefit, impacting both the Society and your local services.”
Just as importantly, the role is about listening. “It’s about representing the profession, but also listening, creating space for members to share their experiences, challenges and ideas, and then using that insight to influence direction and decisions.”
With applications now open for the next Vice President, Kerry hopes more members will consider taking the next step in their leadership journey.
“If you’re passionate about infection prevention and want to make a wider impact, this is a fantastic opportunity. The role allows you to contribute to the future direction of the profession, build a strong national network and develop as a leader. It’s supportive, rewarding and genuinely makes a difference.
It gives you a platform to represent your peers, ensuring their voices are heard and that the Society continues to evolve in a way that truly reflects its members and our charitable aims.”
Applications for the role of Vice President are now open to Full, Honorary and Institutional members of the Infection Prevention Society. If you’re ready to help shape the future of IPS and the infection prevention and control profession, we’d encourage you to put yourself forward.
