Steve Hall, former editor-in-chief for Reach Plc in the East Midlands, has joined South Normanton-based website development, creative and digital marketing agency Purpose Media as a non-executive director.

Bringing more than 37 years of experience in journalism and running businesses and news operations across eight sites, including Derby, Nottingham and Leicester, Hall was named UK Editor of the Year in 2011, and twice won the UK Regional Newspaper of the Year awards.

His role at Purpose Media is to help and support the management team to ensure all activity is measured and effective. He will also oversee special projects that support the future ambitions of the company, which is led by managing director Matt Wheatcroft, and fellow directors Tim Lenton and Claudio Devanzo.

Commenting on his appointment, Steve  said: “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.”

Matt, pictured with Steve, added: “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.”