A former journalist and director at an independent publisher has launched his own public relations firm.

Chris Leggett, pictured, has announced the launch of Birmingham-based PR and marketing agency Osborn.

Chris spent 13 years with the Midland News Association, most recently serving as marketing and communications director, before leaving the company in December last year.

Osborn, which is Chris’s middle name, is now is growing a client roster of businesses looking to reach audiences through news coverage and targeted marketing activity.

Chris said: “Osborn has been launched to provide businesses with practical, experienced support as they regroup following the Covid lockdown.

“Clients have come on board already, all facing a range of challenges around communicating with external and internal audiences, which is where they have needed targeted help.

“Inevitably, some are looking for support with crisis situations around restructuring or making significant changes, which we can support through tailored communications support.

“What is encouraging for the wider economy are the clients who have grown during lockdown, presenting Osborn with opportunities to build engagement for further growth.”

As well as leading the marketing and communications team at the MNA, Chris also played significant roles in the photo archive project at Wolverhampton daily the Express & Star, which saw thousands of historic photos digitised using National Lottery funding, and the company’s Ladder apprenticeships drive, which helped 1,200 people secure work.

Chris joined the MNA as electronic editor in 2006, overseeing the growth in the audience for online content.

Prior to this, he was an online journalist for the BBC News website based in London and spent three years as a national section editor on ITV Teletext, having worked as a reporter on local newspapers in London and Hertfordshire.

Chris added: “I am able to provide clients with national and regional media experience, as well as insights into how they can grow their reach through digital and traditional channels.

“It is early days but the response from clients has been encouraging, presenting new opportunities to grow Osborn and its services.”