North West strategic communications consultancy, Freshfield, has expanded its team with the appointment of George Hodgson as PR and media relations manager.
Hodgson joins Freshfield after more than six years in journalism in the region, firstly for Reach plc online title LancsLive and more recently for the Iconic Media Group (formerly National World)-owned Lancashire Post.
He will support the Preston and Manchester-based consultancy’s clients on a wide range of communications strategy, media relations, and reputation management projects, working closely with clients in several fields including the property and regeneration, professional services and social housing sectors.
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Simon Turner, chief executive at Freshfield, said: “Having people in our team with a strong journalistic pedigree helps give our clients the edge when it comes to delivering effective communications programmes and gaining powerful media coverage.
“This expertise is becoming even more significant as AI-powered search engines increasingly use trusted media coverage as a source of information, helping organisations strengthen their visibility and authority.
“George is someone with a great understanding of how modern newsrooms operate and the publishing strategies and disciplines that ensure maximum impact with audiences. His natural enthusiasm and curiosity to find the real story will also be an incredible asset for our clients.”
New hire Hodgson added: “Freshfield has established a strong reputation over many years, not just for its specialism in PR and communications but also for having a supportive workplace culture.
“It’s a great environment to be stepping into and I’m excited to be part of such an ambitious, experienced team and working alongside an impressive portfolio of clients.”
The latest appointment follows that of Megan Leeming, who joined the Freshfield team last month as senior PR and communications manager following a two-year stint in New Zealand with integrated government relations and PR firm GRC Partners + Porter Novelli, where she advised senior leaders in regulated sectors including financial services, infrastructure and pharmaceuticals..
Over the past 12 months, the consultancy has been shortlisted for several industry awards, including recognition for its “Trust Breck” campaign for affordable housing developer Breck Homes and its “Powering the UK’s Energy Transition” campaign for PWA Planning.
