A new business editor has taken the helm at Archant Norfolk following an internal promotion.

Shaun Lowthorpe has moved to a new strategic role of business publishing editor, working on new business-to-business publishing projects.

His replacement is business writer Ben Woods, left, who was named Business and Finance Journalist of the Year at the 2013 Regional Press Awards.

Ben, 27, joined Archant as a trainee in January 2011 and spent 18 months as a reporter with the Eastern Daily Press before taking on the business writer role.

Said Ben:  “I feel extremely proud to have been entrusted to take on this important role.  East Anglia is a hot bed of innovation and business success. I know from experience that counties across the UK look towards our region in the hope of mirroring our economic excellence.

“My challenge is to reflect these achievements going forward. Whether the business is large or small, a tech start-up or a well-established family firm, I will endeavour to cover the events that matter to the business communities in the east.”

He added: “As well as ensuring the coverage remains authoritative and informative in print, the business team will be exploring new ways to expand our reach online, while bringing in fresh voices and perspectives to spark debate.

“I want the readers and businesses to be a part of this journey – and I am looking forward to sharing my vision soon.”

Added Shaun:  “Ben has produced some great scoops since joining the business team and has some really innovative ideas about how to take our coverage forward.

“For me, it’s great to hand over to him after three years running the business desk. My new role means I won’t be far away and I am looking forward to developing new products and ideas as we look to enhance our business coverage.”