Regional publisher Johnston Press has appointed a new director who will oversee newspaper circulations across the group.

Richard Thomson, left, will become group newspaper sales director in a newly-created role at the publisher on 7 January, where he will oversee JP’s circulation strategy, joining from Newsquest where he was group newspaper sales manager.

Johnston Press has also appointed Lucy Sinclair as its group audience development and marketing director, who will start on the same date, with her previously working as director of marketing and audiences for BBC Future Media.

Neil Jones, JP’s commercial and marketing director, said: “Lucy brings with her a great track record of developing successful brand portfolios across the BBC’s digital platforms. Her experience will prove invaluable in building audience numbers across all of our platforms and developing close relationships with our consumers.

“Richard has a wealth of experience in delivering robust sales strategies and we are delighted that he is joining the team. Our print brands remain central to our offering and as we continue to move forward with our re-launch strategy, Richard will play an invaluable role in driving their value.”

Richard added: “I am delighted to be joining Johnston Press. Its status as one of the leading media groups in the UK, combined with the transformation which it is undergoing, creates an exciting proposition and I look forward to working together with the team.”