Graeme Clifford, 54, who is currently the company’s operations and production director, will take over the role on January 5.
Graeme will be responsible for ensuring maximum revenues are generated by the MNA’s print portfolio, along with the development of new offerings. He replaces Phil Inman, who was promoted to CEO of the parent Claverley Group last year.
Graeme has 30 years’ experience with the company, having joined the MNA as an administration clerk in the advertising department.
He held a number of positions including production manager and works manager, before being appointed to his current role in 2011.
Graeme said: “I am delighted to be appointed to the new role and am excited about the opportunity of leading the development of the MNA’s print portfolio.”
Claverley CEO Phil Inman said: “With ink running through his veins, Graeme will ensure the MNA continues to have the necessary focus on maximising the opportunities generated from a print portfolio which continues to be read by hundreds of thousands of people every week.
“Graeme will be given a brief to ensure that the MNA publishes newspapers that engage with readers and deliver a valued response for advertisers.”
The appointment comes after the MNA appointed Andy Hill to be the digital managing director.
Phil Inman added: “Along with the appointment of Andy as digital MD, the MNA now has a structure in place to ensure maximum focus is given to both print and online. I have every confidence that the new look company will go from strength to strength.”
The MNA’s print portfolio includes the UK’s biggest selling regional newspaper the Express & Star, named regional newspaper of the year 2014, along with the sixth biggest title the Shropshire Star. It also publishes a series of weekly newspapers and monthly magazines in the West Midlands and Shropshire.
