A director who was due to leave a regional publisher later this year has left his post with immediate effect.

National World has confirmed the departure of Steve Barber, who had served as a non-executive director.

Steve resigned his role last month and was due to work a three-month notice period.

However, he has now left the company.

In a statement on 22 July, National World said: “Further to the company’s announcement of 29 June 2022, concerning the resignation of Steve Barber, National World has today been informed by Mr Barber that he wishes to stand down as a director ahead of the expiry of his notice period.

“His resignation has been accepted by the board with immediate effect.

“The board has commenced the process of recruiting another independent director and will provide a further update in due course.”

A former finance director of Mirror Group in the 1990s, Steve went on to enjoy an extensive career in the city with roles including audit committee chairman of the AA, Intu Shopping Centres and the Dominos Pizza group.

He is also a partner and co-founder in his own business, The Objectivity Partnership.