A former regional daily editor has taken up a new directorial role with a marketing firm.

Steve Hall has been appointed to a non-executive director post at Purpose Media, a website, creative and digital marketing agency based in South Normanton, Derbyshire.

Steve, pictured, edited the Derby Telegraph and was editor-in-chief of Reach plc’s East Midlands titles at the time of his 2018 departure from the regional press after 36 years in the industry.

He then served on the board of East Midlands marketing and brand agency Champions (UK) Plc before leaving last summer.

Steve now runs his own consultancy and chairs the Derby County Community Trust, as well as being an associate lecturer in journalism at the University of Derby.

Steve, who also holds a non-executive director role at Marketing Derby, told Business Live: “I have long been an admirer of Purpose Media’s reputation for excellence and I’m particularly impressed by everyone’s commitment to gaining a deep understanding of client needs and maintaining a laser focus on generating impressive results.

“They’ve done brilliantly during lockdown to maintain and build their business and there is a steely determination to come out of restrictions in a stronger position by investing in the team and niche marketing programmes.

“I am delighted to be joining a company which is packed full of energy, talent, creativity and ambition, and I hope to guide future decisions in order to capitalise on the current high demand for digital marketing skills.”

Purpose Media employs more than 30 website development, creative and digital marketing specialists and is planning to expand the team further with a least three new appointments by the summer.

Managing director Matt Wheatcroft said: “Steve brings exactly the type of experience and industry contacts we need at present.

“I have always acknowledged the value non-executive directors can bring to a growing business like Purpose Media as their prior insight and knowledge is invaluable.

“Steve has definitely ‘been there and got the T-shirt’ and has successfully guided many businesses through economic booms and dips. I am really pleased to have him on our team.”