Ian Carter (pictured), who is editor-in-chief for two of Northcliffe’s Kent titles, moves over in December.
“We all know the media business is in the thick of the fight of its life,” he said, “but I am a firm believer that newspaper groups willing to embrace the opportunities offered by new media will continue to flourish.
“The KM Group is one of those. With its strong newspapers, attractive websites and lively radio stations the KM has consistently demonstrated a readiness to change and adapt for an exciting and successful future.”
Ian is currently responsible for the Courier Media Group and East Surrey and Sussex News and Media. Titles under his management include the Tunbridge Wells-based Kent and Sussex Courier, Sevenoaks Chronicle, Croydon Advertiser and Surrey Mirror.
Graham Mead, KM Group managing director, said: “We are absolutely delighted that we have been able to tempt someone with Ian’s knowledge and experience to join us.
“He has shown a huge vote of confidence in the way the group is developing and enhancing its business to ensure that we continue to be Kent’s leading media group.”
Mr Carter began his journalistic career with the Colchester Evening Gazette. He spent five years with the Brighton Argus, three of them as head of news.
He joined Teletext for the launch of the TV information service’s website and worked as a senior broadcast journalist for the BBC before moving back into newspapers as group editor for the Croydon Advertiser series in 2002.