UTV has appointed Richard Huntingford as its new chairman with immediate effect.
Huntingford was previously a chief executive of Chrysalis plc from 2000 to 2007 and executive chairman of Virgin Radio from 2007 to 2008. With 25 years experience in the media sector, he has also worked as a non-executive director at KPMG.
He will take over from former chairman of UTV John B McGuckian, who resigned as a director in February, and Helen Kirkpatrick, who had been acting as interim chairman of UTV. She will remain with the broadcaster as a non-executive director of the board.
Kirkpatrick said of Huntingford: “Richard has enjoyed a highly distinguished career in the media sector and has extensive plc board experience as a non-executive director and chairman making him an excellent choice to lead the UTV board. We look forward to the additional perspective he will be able to bring to the UTV group going forward.
“On behalf of the board I would like to welcome Richard to UTV and wish him every success with the group.”
Huntingford added: “I am delighted to have been given such an exciting opportunity at UTV, a company I have always admired for its achievements. I look forward to working with my new colleagues on the board in helping John McCann and his executive team deliver continuing long-term value for UTV’s shareholders.”
