Jonathan Grun (pictured), who has served as Editor at the Press Association (PA) for the past 20 years, joins the School of Journalism, Media and Communication in a newly created role which will broaden and deepen the University's already strong links with the media industries.
Beginning this September, Jonathan will be tasked with establishing and leading a new Advisory Board for the School of Journalism, Media and Communication. He will represent the department in an ambassadorial role and create new opportunities for the hundreds of Sheffield students working towards degrees in journalism.
Jonathan said: "It is a tremendous honour to be appointed to this role. I have admired the work of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication for many years.
"Quite simply, Sheffield University trains some brilliant journalists and does important research work. Our society needs robust, ethical journalism and Sheffield University plays an important part in making that happen.
"I feel privileged to join the talented and dedicated staff in the school – they are tremendous professionals."
Quite simply, Sheffield University trains some brilliant journalists and does important research work. I feel privileged to join the talented and dedicated staff in the school.
Jonathan Grun
School of Journalism, Media and Communication
Enormous benefit
After his official retirement as Editor, Jonathan retains a role with the PA to oversee journalistic standards and diversity. He is also secretary to the Editors' Code Committee of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) and Vice-Chair of the Defence and Security Media Advisory committee. He has twice been elected President of the Society of Editors, and is a Freeman of the City of London.
In his new position at Sheffield Jonathan will also contribute to Journalism Studies' guest lecture programme and explore potential new partnerships in the media industry and the research community.
Joint head of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication Marie Kinsey said: "We're delighted to have such a well respected journalist as Jonathan playing a key role in the school . His expertise will be of enormous benefit to staff and to students and we're very much looking forward to working with him."
Jonathan's appointment follows the recruitment of eight more staff at the School of Journalism, Media and Communication in response to an increase in student numbers and a refocusing of the department's research activities.