Walkley promoted to Hachette digital and development director

George Walkley, formerly Hachette UK’s head of digital, has been appointed digital and development director.

In this newly-created “broader” role, Walkley will oversee HUK’s digital supply chain, drive digital initiatives on behalf of the group and provide support, infrastructure, advice and expertise to allow publishers to publish digital content effectively, Hachette said. Additionally, he will support the senior management of Hachette UK in relation to research, analysis, strategy and company development.

Effective immediately, Walkley reports to deputy c.e.o. Richard Kitson, who welcomed Walkley’s “considerable and very varied expertise”. 

Kitson said: “George has been a dynamic, knowledgeable and highly effective head of digital and I am delighted that he has agreed to take on this broader role which uses his considerable and very varied areas of expertise. 

“In his new role, he will support David and me and our senior colleagues with research and development to underpin Hachette’s strategy in the UK and in all the markets we operate in. 

“He will continue to ensure that Hachette remains the UK’s leading digital publisher working with colleagues, including Oliver Rhodes in his role as digital publishing director, to stay ahead of digital developments, to innovate and to maximise the group’s potential in digital creation, product development and distribution.”

Walkley said: “I am delighted to be taking on a broader role within the group at an exciting time for the industry and for Hachette. I have known David and Richard since we all worked together at Time Warner so I am looking forward to working with them and other senior colleagues to develop our strategy and digital business.”

David Shelley officially took over the reigns as Hachette c.e.o. from Tim Hely Hutchinson this month.