A former regional editor who retired earlier this year after 40 years in the industry has taken up a new role as director of a business organisation.

Ian Mean left his role at the Western Daily Press in February, having previously been editor of The Citizen in Gloucester for 10 years and later content director for Local World’s titles in the South West.

He has now become a director of the Gloucestershire arm of Business West, a business leadership organisation which works across the region.

On leaving Local World, Ian remained as a part-time consultant editor for the region and he is also involved in a number of other organisations, including Marketing Gloucester, Gloucestershire NHS Organ Donation Committee, Gloucestershire Community Foundation and Gloucestershire College.

Ian said: “I have endeavoured to support the County’s business community for many years and I know that Gloucestershire is a fantastic place to do business.

“I see joining Business West and its Chambers of Commerce in Gloucestershire as a logical step and I firmly believe in the importance of the representation and business support role that it plays at local, regional and national level.”

Phil Smith, managing director of Business West added: “I am delighted to welcome Ian, whose strong connection to the business community in Gloucestershire will help us to better understand the needs of the businesses we serve.

“I have no doubt that his combination of business knowledge, as well as local knowledge, will greatly benefit businesses in the county.”