Comms director leaves Peel under voluntary redundancy scheme
The Peel Group has announced that Paul Newman, group communications director, is to step down from his role.
For Newman, 62, it marks the end of a successful 12-year stint leading the communications function for the Manchester-based private property, transport and infrastructure investment group.
He was initially appointed as communications director for MediaCityUK during its construction in 2008 and was pivotal in sharing Peel’s ground-breaking vision for the creative, tech and digital destination – raising its profile among regional and national audiences.
In 2012, his remit widened to oversee external communications and reputational management for the wider Peel Group and its portfolio of investments.
After a broadcasting career spanning two decades, which saw him cover national and international news stories for the BBC, ITV and Sky News, he progressed to communication director roles for The Football Association and, prior to joining The Peel Group, Liverpool’s European Capital of Culture status in 2008.
Steven Underwood, Peel Group chief executive, said: “Paul is leaving the business following his decision to take voluntary redundancy, which we have respectfully accepted.
“As the group has diversified its interests over recent years, our profile has risen exponentially, and Paul has expertly managed our external communications from the launch of MediaCityUK to large scale strategic announcements and deftly handled reputational management issues.
“Paul will be greatly missed by colleagues across the group – our chairman, John Whittaker and executive leadership team, wish Paul the very best in his future endeavours.”
Paul said: “I am privileged to have witnessed at first hand some remarkable times for Peel, not least the creation and growth of MediaCityUK into the international hub that it is today.
“More than anything, it is the passion, determination and sense of fun among so many amazing colleagues, that has made the last 12 years so special.”
