The body is part of the university's journalism innovation and leadership programme.
Alford told HTFP: “I’m delighted to be joining the board at this pivotal time for our industry when it’s more important than ever that our editorial leaders of the future have the skills required to navigate any challenges.
“It’s also vital our industry recognises and promotes talents from a diverse background in order for our newsrooms to fully reflect every area of society.”
The university is offering three tuition-free scholarships, worth £27,000 each, to staff from member organisations of the Society of Editors.
Dr François Nel, reader in media innovation and entrepreneurship at UCLan and director of the scholarship programme, said: “Participants learn a great deal from each other over the course of this programme, alongside their engagement with their tutors and mentors.
“We’re delighted to be able to extend this opportunity to members of the Society of Editors, who have partnered on the course from the start.”
Jenny Simpson, editor of JPIMedia’s Manchester World website, was part of the first cohort on the course.
She said: “The programme has helped me address any gaps in my knowledge at a time when the media industry is going through a seismic change and made me feel more confident that I will have the skills to cope with whatever changes happen next.
“It has also been a brilliant way to grow my network and learn from inspiring people across the world.”
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