In a newly created role, Laura Hill will join Reach’s Live network as SEO Editor. Laura is welcomed back to Reach after working at JPI; previous to this Laura worked for Reach at ChronicleLive and also formed part of the LeedsLive launch team in 2017. In the new role, Laura will lead on SEO growth strategy, search strategy and will direct a team of writers on the biggest topics of the day for both local and national issues.
Laura Hill said: “I am looking forward to rejoining the team at Reach and excited for a new challenge.
“I can’t wait to get started and help keep readers informed with content on subjects that matter to them.”
Pete Gavan has also been recruited as Senior Editor for the Live Network, and will work as part of the senior editorial team across the Live network, helping to guide daily Live network output across the UK and support key audience growth projects. Pete was previously regional group editor for Newsquest.
Pete Gavan said: "I’m really looking forward to joining Reach and taking up my new position. It’s a new challenge and one I can’t wait to get started on.
"My passion is digital and this role will allow me to bring that to the fore with the teams across the Live network every day."
Network Content Editor Max Channon has also been promoted into the newly created role of Overnights Editor (Live Network). The overnight newsdesk services the Live network, including Scottish and Irish titles and works in conjunction with the Press Association as part of Reach's long established relationship with PA.
Max Channon said: "The new overnight desk is a key part of Reach's audience growth strategy and it allows the 'Live' network to really live up to its name.
“Rolling out a network-wide service - covering the UK and Ireland - has allowed Reach to bring round-the-clock news to local and regional news rooms.”
Ben Green has been announced as Deputy Head of Social Media and Engagement which will see him support all social media activity across the Live Network. Ben has 16 years of journalism experience and will join Reach in November from JPI Media where he is currently Group Engagement Editor.
Ben Green said: "It is very exciting to be joining Reach at a time of major investment in local journalism.
"I'm relishing the opportunity of working with Reach's network of brilliant journalists and news websites across the UK."
The strengthening of the central hub for the Live network is happening alongside Reach’s single largest recruitment drive ever, says the company. So far this year, more than 100 new roles have been filled in local newsrooms across the Live network in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Ed Walker, audience and content director (Live Network), said: "We're looking forward to having Laura, Pete and Ben start with us working across the Network team and our Live network of sites, and adding to our experienced team of editorial managers and leaders. “Max has done sterling work helping to set up the overnight operation and now moves into the role full-time.
"The Reach Network team's expansion will continue to strengthen our position as the UK's largest regional news publisher supporting our teams in both established and new geographies to rapidly grow our engaged audiences."
Keep up-to-date with publishing news: sign up here for InPubWeekly, our free weekly e-newsletter.
