Reach has announced a major investment in its regional football coverage, which will create 16 new jobs.
“The Football Project” is a restructure of its local football teams and will see new roles created in Newcastle, the East Midlands, West Midlands, Manchester, Liverpool and on Football.London.
It says that from January 1st it will provide more diverse coverage across its 40 regional sites, including football news, informed opinion, scouting analysis and Esports trends.
Jonathan Birchall, who’s currently head of sport for Reach’s regional websites, has been appointed as Editor (Football) and will be responsible for the delivery of The Football Project.
“We have come a long way in terms of football coverage online in recent years and we believe there is an opportunity to reach even more people, and engage with those who already visit, more frequently,” explained David Higgerson, chief audience officer at Reach.
“I’m delighted Jon has agreed to take on this new role. The Football Project is about making the most of our local connections, and improving what we do by providing a wider range of football-related stories to readers.”
Birchall will be supported by Tom Marshall-Bailey who’s been named Publishing Editor (Football).
“Innovation, which is key to our future success, will be at the heart of this project. Jon and Tom are brilliantly placed to ensure the great ideas generated across our sports teams are shined and shared,” added Alan Edmunds, editorial director for Reach Regionals.
Kristian Walsh, currently Sports Audience Editor at the Liverpool Echo, has been named Content Editor (Group Sport).
Josh Williams and David Hughes have been appointed as Football Scouting Writers, while Nathan Bliss is the new Esports and Gaming Writer.
