Peter Franzen, who has been editor of the Eastern Daily Press in Norwich for 16 years, will be retiring following his 62nd birthday earlier this month after a long career which has seen him working across Archant Norfolk's titles including time as a sub-editor on daily titles and editing the Great Yarmouth Mercury.
He joined the company in 1970,when it was known as Eastern Counties Newspapers, and his time in the newspaper industry has seen major changes with the move from hot metal production through to instant computer technology and news being delivered through websites, computerised turning pages alongside traditional newsprint.
As well as developing the brand across the award winning website EDP24 and on a monthly magazine, he was responsible for establishing a range of highly respected awards covering business, food and tourism.
He has ensured the paper was a great supporter of charitable projects and with his encouragement the EDP's readers have helped to raised thousands of pounds for many different charities, whether it was in war-torn places such as Sierra Leone or closer to home with a dedicated EDP charity which was set up to raise much needed funds for carers of all ages.
Mr Franzen's work was recognised in the New Year's Honours in 2005 when he was awarded the OBE for his services to journalism.
Archant Norfolk managing director, Stephan Phillips said: "The Eastern Daily Press has gone from strength to strength under Peter's tenure and it has won many industry awards. Throughout his time at the helm, the title has always been recognised as one of the country's leading morning dailies. He has overseen major changes with the title effectively and skilfully and he has earned tremendous respect and admiration from all around him. Peter has given great service to the Eastern Daily Press and to Norfolk and he will be an extremely hard act to follow both in the newspaper business and outside in the community."
Mr Franzen commented: "I have lived and breathed news all my working life and when you are an editor your job never stops - it is 24 hours a day and seven days a week all year round. It is always a hard decision to step down but there comes a time when you do want to enjoy your retirement while you are still young enough to do so. There is a strong team in place at the EDP and I know they will continue to deliver a quality product in the newspaper and across the EDP24 website."
Archant Norfolk has confirmed that Mr Franzen will not sever his links completely as he will provide an advisory and ambassadorial role for the company.
