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Society of Editors boss takes up new journalism training role

Dawn AlfordSociety of Editors executive director Dawn Alford has taken up a new journalism training role.

The University of Central Lancashire has announced Dawn will join its board of industry advisors and mentors, put together as part of its journalism innovation and leadership programme.

The programme is targeted at working journalists wanting to take the lead in developing modern, digital newsrooms, with guidance from experts.

Dawn, pictured, will help to guide and develop course content as well as pass on her expertise and knowledge to course participants.

She said: “I’m delighted to be joining the board at this pivotal time for our industry when it’s more important than ever that our editorial leaders of the future have the skills required to navigate any challenges.

“It’s also vital our industry recognises and promotes talents from a diverse background in order for our newsrooms to fully reflect every area of society.”

The course has also committed to offering three tuition-fee scholarships, worth £2,700 each, to staff from SoE member organisations.

Dr François Nel, reader in media innovation and entrepreneurship at UCLan and director of the scholarship programme, said: “Participants learn a great deal from each other over the course of this programme, alongside their engagement with their tutors and mentors.

“We’re delighted to be able to extend this opportunity to members of the Society of Editors, who have partnered on the course from the start.”

Jenny Simpson, editor of JPIMedia’s Manchester World website, was part of the first cohort on the course.

She said: “The programme has helped me address any gaps in my knowledge at a time when the media industry is going through a seismic change and made me feel more confident that I will have the skills to cope with whatever changes happen next.

“It has also been a brilliant way to grow my network and learn from inspiring people across the world.”