Alan (pictured) will be joining Victoria University, Kampala, Uganda to set up and run their first Media, Communications and Journalism degree programme.
“I've been lucky to work in quite a bit of the developing world – Afghanistan, Caribbean, eastern Europe...Margate! – and see this as a great opportunity to strengthen my international experience,” said Alan.
“These are exciting times for journalism everywhere and I’m delighted to be able to use my expertise in an area where a strong media is a vital component in the democratic process.”
Alan has previously worked at City and Westminster Universities in London and helped start another undergraduate programme at Worcester University. He will also be studying for a PhD with Leicester University, researching the theory and practice of Investigative Journalism.
In his three years with Northcliffe Alan has overseen the successful introduction of the central subbing unit that produces the region’s 35 weekly titles and twice led the Essex Chronicle to the accolade of weekly newspaper of the year in the Society of Editors Regional Press Awards.
“I’ve enjoyed every minute here working with some hugely talented people on some wonderful titles. Our brand of campaigning community journalism is alive and well and I look forward to seeing the papers go from strength to strength,” said Alan.
Northcliffe will not be replacing the regional editorial director role, but the search will now start for an editor for the Essex Chronicle.
Northcliffe South East Managing director Richard Karn said: “Alan has made a huge contribution to our business, most significantly in helping to develop our pool of talented journalists and Editors – we all wish him every success in this exciting new chapter of his career”
