Playtime PR’s Lesley Singleton and Ceriann Smith were both recognised for people-first leadership in international awards celebrating exceptional workplace culture.
Playtime PR’s Lesley Singleton and Ceriann Smith
Playtime PR’s CEO, Lesley Singleton, and managing director, Ceriann Smith, have both been named winners in the 2025 Inspiring Leaders Awards, presented by Inspiring Workplaces in partnership with Radicl. The awards recognise individuals across the globe who put people, purpose and culture at the heart of business success.
This double recognition highlights Playtime’s distinctive leadership model, where collaboration, trust and playfulness underpin a thriving culture. Lesley and Ceriann’s awards celebrate a year of significant milestones for the agency, including becoming the UK’s first organisation to achieve PeopleFirst platinum certification and launching new internal initiatives designed to empower every team member to grow, connect and give back.
Lesley Singleton, who founded Playtime PR in 2014, was recognised for her transparent, human style of leadership and her ability to evolve the culture around the agency’s mission of making lives more playful.
“Everything we do comes back to making people’s lives better,” Lesley commented. “For our team, that means listening, learning and never losing sight of the joy in what we do. For our clients, it means having a team that’s energised, curious and proud to represent their brands.”
Ceriann Smith, who was promoted to MD earlier this year, was commended for leading with purpose and championing strategic initiatives that shape the agency’s ethical and creative direction, including its B Corp and Carbon Neutral certifications, and the Libraries Board Game Club community impact programme.
“I’m lucky to lead such a passionate team,” commented Ceriann. “My goal is to give people space to grow, explore ideas and build confidence in their own way. These awards feel like a reflection of the whole Playtime family, not just of us.”
The duo’s people-first approach is reflected by the team itself. “Under Lesley’s leadership, Playtime is a place where people are valued, trusted and inspired to do their best work,” said Louise Hathaway, Joint head of Consumer Campaigns. “It’s rare to find a leader who balances business success with such authentic care for her team. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of that.”
Meanwhile, Selina Dangerfield, publicist, described Ceriann’s influence: “Working with Ceriann makes me feel valued, capable and excited about my future. She leads with heart and clarity, a good dose of humour too, and makes Playtime somewhere people genuinely thrive and want to be.”
The Inspiring Leaders Awards celebrate leaders who have demonstrated authenticity, inclusivity and empathy in creating better workplaces. The 2025 winners were announced globally by Inspiring Workplaces and Radicl on 6th November.
Get in touch with Playtime PR on 01908 032 700 or at [email protected]
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