Director steps up digital agency role as team celebrates continued success
Steve, who has enjoyed a 40-year career in the media industry, has been a non-executive board member with the firm for two years but will now take on operational responsibilities, including oversight of content services.
The former editor and managing director of the Derby Telegraph and editor-in-chief of the Nottingham Post and Leicester Mercury is relishing the opportunity to assist the award-winning agency’s continued growth and development.
“During my time as a non-executive director, I have been hugely impressed by the Purpose Media team’s commitment to achieving outstanding results for clients,” he said.
“Their strategic approach to meeting customers’ marketing objectives and demonstrating return on investment helps them to stand apart from their peers and to build long-lasting relationships which really deliver.”
Steve will carry out his role at the South Normanton-based agency alongside existing commitments as a director of Marketing Derby and chair of Derby County Community Trust.
Purpose Media managing director Matt Wheatcroft believes Steve’s sector experience and business network will be a huge benefit to both the company and its clients.
“Steve’s expertise and track record of success further strengthens our ability to provide customers with impactful solutions across web, creative, video and digital marketing, using insights and technology to bring their visions to life and help achieve their business objectives,” he said.
Steve’s move comes at a time when Purpose Media are celebrating a number of new client wins and the achievements of several members of staff.
Project manager Ruby Birks has been shortlisted in two categories – She Who Innovates and Rising Star – in East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women Awards along with being nominated for the Future Leader accolade at the Generation Next Awards.
Client services apprentice Harriet Fell has also been shortlisted by Generation Next for its Customer Service Award, while Purpose Media is in the running in the Innovation and Technology category.
Harriet, who has just successfully completed her level three apprenticeship in business administration along with a Chartered Management Institute level three certificate in principles of management and leadership, is thrilled that her achievements have impressed the awards judges.
“It’s fantastic validation and a real confidence boost to be shortlisted alongside so many impressive young professionals,” she said.
Ruby, a previous Generation Next Apprentice of the Year who has just completed a Prince2 Foundation Certificate in project management, is also delighted to be in contention for more honours this year.
“The experience has been hugely positive and of great benefit as I continue to develop my skillset and build my career,” she said.
Both Ruby and Harriet have been appointed as ambassadors for Generation Next to assist its mission to offer networking, mentoring and support to young professionals across the East Midlands region.
Purpose Media Account Director Matt Bonser is also celebrating successfully completing a Help To Grow: Management programme with the University of Derby.
The course, accredited by the Small Business Charter, is designed to support leaders and managers within SMEs to boost business performance, resilience and long-term growth.
“It was a fascinating experience which will have real benefits in terms of my own development, my contribution in helping shape the Purpose business and, crucially, enhancing the outcomes we are able to achieve for our clients,” said Matt.
Managing director Matt Wheatcroft said he was proud of his team’s achievements.
“Nurturing and encouraging talent is a key driver for our business and it’s rewarding to see our people building their skills and being recognised for their success by awards judges. It underscores what we’ve long believed – that the best way to generate brilliant results for customers is through developing a brilliant team,” he said.