Piers North

Piers CEO Reach PLC

Piers North stands at the helm of Reach plc as a visionary Chief Executive Officer, driven by a profound belief in the essential role of journalism in a modern, democratic society. His journey to the top of the UK’s largest commercial news publisher began not in a boardroom, but as a dedicated roofer during his university years—a role he still fondly recalls for the grounded perspective it provided. Since taking the lead in March 2025, North has injected a sense of invigorating purpose into the organization, championing a “new chapter” that prioritizes connection and authenticity. His leadership is defined by a rare blend of commercial acumen and a genuine passion for the stories that shape our collective future, ensuring that titles like The Mirror and Express remain vital voices for millions.

With a career spanning over two decades at the intersection of media and technology, North has consistently anticipated the digital shifts that define our era. His decade-long tenure at Yahoo and his pivotal years as Reach’s Chief Revenue Officer allowed him to master the complex landscape of online advertising and consumer behavior. Under his guidance, the group achieved the historic milestone of reaching over 40 million online users, a feat that underscored his ability to scale digital platforms without losing sight of the human element. Today, he is leading a bold diversification strategy, steering the company toward a “mixed economy” of video, audio, and digital subscriptions to ensure a sustainable future for independent news.

The cultural impact of North’s vision is felt in his commitment to holding power to account while embracing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. He famously navigates the evolving relationship with tech giants through a “mixture of courtship and courts,” steadfastly defending the value of intellectual property and the hard work of his journalists. By centralizing operations and investing in high-impact areas like video content, he is rewiring the news for a new generation while respecting the deep-rooted heritage of regional reporting. This strategic agility allows Reach to remain flexible in a volatile digital world, turning every technological challenge into an opportunity for growth and reinvention.

Piers North’s story is one of resilience and foresight, reminding us that true leadership requires both the courage to change and the integrity to stay true to one’s mission. His approach is deeply rooted in the belief that media is most powerful when it influences behavior for the better and builds a sustainable future for the communities it serves. As he looks toward 2026 as a defining year for the industry, his uplifting leadership continues to inspire thousands of colleagues to pursue excellence with a global mindset. Through his guidance, Reach plc is not just adapting to the digital age; it is actively shaping the future of information with spirit, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the truth.

Reach PLC

Reach plc a legacy of trusted storytelling evolves to empower the digital communities of tomorrow stands as an inspiring pillar of the British media landscape, serving as the largest commercial news publisher in the United Kingdom and Ireland. With a rich history dating back to 1711, the organization has continuously adapted to meet the needs of a changing world, evolving from a traditional print giant into a dynamic, digital-first media partner. Today, Reach is home to over 120 iconic brands—including national titles like The Mirror and Daily Express, alongside beloved regional voices such as the Manchester Evening News and Liverpool Echo. Its mission is deeply rooted in the belief that brilliant content and trusted brands have the power to inform, entertain, and connect people exactly where they live, whether that is a physical neighborhood or a digital passion community.

The cultural and historical significance of Reach plc is defined by its unwavering commitment to independent journalism and community advocacy. Through its extensive network of local newsrooms, the company gives a voice to those who need it most, launching high-impact campaigns that deliver real change—from fighting for pensioners’ winter fuel payments to tackling the knife crime epidemic. This dedication to “Where People Live” ensures that journalism remains a force for good, fostering informed and sustainable communities across the globe. By maintaining a balance between national leadership and hyperlocal relevance, Reach protects the heritage of the free press while embracing the responsibilities of a modern, diverse society.

Innovation is the heartbeat of Reach’s future, as the group leads a bold “Paper to Pixel” transformation that redefines how audiences engage with news. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and a video-first mindset, the company is meeting millions of users on social platforms, forums, and through immersive newsletters and podcasts. The introduction of the Reach Studio and the data-led “Engine” platform allows the organization to uncover deep audience insights, ensuring that every story told is both relevant and authentic. This forward-thinking approach has allowed Reach to reach over 40 million online users monthly, creating a resilient digital ecosystem that thrives on first-party data and direct reader relationships.

As a responsible business, Reach plc is dedicated to making a positive difference for its people, its communities, and the environment. The company has achieved remarkable milestones, including 100% renewable electricity at its owned sites and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, reflecting its commitment to a sustainable future. Through initiatives like the Pride of Britain awards, Reach moves beyond the screen to celebrate real-life heroes, driving social amplification and advocacy that resonates far and wide. This blend of integrity, innovation, and community spirit makes Reach plc not just a publisher, but an indispensable digital voice for every community it serves.

Manchester Evening News

For more than 150 years we have told the stories of the people of what is now known as Greater Manchester, the most important regional city in the UK. For all of these years we have told these stories via the printed word and through photographs. More recently we have also told them through digital means, including video and audio.

Regardless of the means of publication, we have always been committed to reporting the news accurately, fairly and vigorously, holding those in authority to account and campaigning on behalf of the needs and interests of the people of the region. We are not aligned to any political party, we are supporters of the people of Greater Manchester. manchestereveningnews.co.uk is the online edition of the Manchester Evening News.