Rachel Peace Named Chair of NABS’ Fast Forward Programme

Rachel Peace, managing director, Hearts & Science, has been announced as the new chair of Fast Forward, NABS' legendary training programme for adland’s future leaders. 

Rachel’s appointment comes after years of dedication to Fast Forward having previously, been a mentor, speaker and judge on the renowned training programme. 

Rachel takes over from James Appleby, who has chaired Fast Forward for the past two years. 

Rachel says, “Fast Forward is incredibly powerful. It was ahead of its time when it was created and it’s still unique, exciting and relevant today. Fast Forward is the one course that brings PR, media and creative together, thus truly reflecting the way that
the industry is going. 

“I look forward to Fast Forward in the diary every year, and I’m incredibly honoured to be invited to chair it.” 

Rachel’s aim is to build on James’ focus on resilience and mental wellness during the pitch process. 

Rachel says, “I really like where James took Fast Forward to in terms of the resilience piece. It’s a huge factor in counteracting the mental strain. Now, I want to build on that brilliant work by removing some of the worry around pitching and what the pitch
process can mean. For our delegates, we’ll remove the fear of the unknown; they’ll get to experience what the process looks and feels like.” 

The course will run for six weeks from February to March 2026. Delegates will work in groups to respond to a real-life brief from a charity client, which they will present to each other in an exciting pitch night.   

Delegates will also benefit from mentoring sessions and informative talks from some of the industry’s leading figures to help them succeed. 

Sue Todd, CEO, NABS, says, “Fast Forward is a brilliant way to connect our community together with a unique combination of support and training. We’re in our delegates’ corner during the course and then for the duration of their careers. When organisations
partner with NABS to send their talent on Fast Forward, they’re helping to create a positive future for those people and the industry as a whole.” 

To find out more and sign up for Fast Forward, visit here.