Darcey brings extensive board experience and a wealth of executive experience in the media industry, both as strategic advisor as well as having held a number of senior executive roles. Formerly at Sky for 15 years, the last six of which as COO, and most recently as CEO of News UK (publishers of the Times, Sunday Times and Sun) for three years, Mike played a central role in the evolution of their highly successful business models as they responded to ongoing change in consumer behaviour and the dynamics of competition, says Dennis.
As Chairman of the UK company, Darcey will head up the main board of Directors, helping to set the agenda and ensure the company works effectively with its shareholders. The role will oversee the strategic direction of the UK and US companies, alongside fellow directors Chief Executive James Tye, CFO/COO Brett Reynolds, MD of Advertising Julian Lloyd-Evans, MD of Digital Pete Wootton and CEO of The Week Kerin O’Connor. In the US, Darcey will assume the role of Shareholders’ Representative.
James Tye, CEO of Dennis, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Mike to the Dennis Board and very much look forward to working with him as the company continues to move forward at pace. Mike shares many of Dennis’ ambitions and values. He will also be key in cementing our purpose as active supporters of the Heart of England Forest charity.”
Mike Darcey, Chairman of Dennis, said: “Dennis is a tremendously exciting media company with a strong track record of growth and innovation and has been a standout performer among publishers navigating the changes brought about by the digital revolution. I’m very much looking forward to being part of the Dennis story: working with James, the UK and US board, the company and its shareholders to ensure a bright future for the company.”
Since the death of Owner and Chairman Felix Dennis in June 2014, Dennis has been run for the benefit of the Heart of England Forest Charity. The shareholders of Dennis Publishing Ltd are currently the Executors of the Felix Dennis estate and will in due course be the Trustees of the Charity.
