Johnston Press chief executive Ashley Highfield has resigned from his role, citing family reasons as the primary factor behind his decision. Highfield, who has been at the helm of the media group since 2011, played a significant role in steering the company through a challenging period for the print and digital publishing industry. His departure marks the end of a seven-year tenure during which he focused on transforming the business to adapt to the rapidly evolving media landscape.
Highfield’s leadership saw Johnston Press make strides in digital innovation, including the launch of new online platforms and a push towards monetising digital content. Despite these efforts, the company has faced ongoing financial pressures, with declining print revenues and a shifting advertising market posing persistent challenges. The industry has also seen significant consolidation, with other major players exploring mergers and acquisitions to remain competitive.
In a statement, Highfield expressed his gratitude to the team at Johnston Press, saying, “It has been an honour to lead this organisation and work with such a dedicated group of colleagues. My decision to step down was not made lightly, but family must come first.” The board has yet to announce a successor but has confirmed that the search for a new chief executive is underway.
Highfield’s resignation comes at a critical juncture for Johnston Press, which publishes titles including The Scotsman, The Yorkshire Post, and The i newspaper. The company has been exploring strategic options to strengthen its financial position, including the potential sale of assets or restructuring of its debt. Industry analysts have highlighted the need for continued innovation and investment in digital capabilities to secure the future of traditional media businesses like Johnston Press.
For more details on Highfield’s resignation and its implications, you can read the original report here.
