Top two managers to leave Northcliffe Media

The two most senior executives at Northcliffe Media are to retire, it was announced to staff today, reports HoldtheFrontPage.

Managing director Michael Pelosi is bowing out after 22 years with the company, with his place to be taken by Steve Auckland, currently managing director at Metro.

Auckland is a former managing director of Yorkshire Post Newspapers and began his career in media as a classified sales executive with the company.

HTFP says Pelosi is to remain with the company until the end of the year, but in a different role working with Associated Newspapers group managing director Kevin Beatty on group-wide initiatives.

Also standing down is Pelosi's deputy, Alex Leys, who is retiring after a 28-year career with the company, which included editing the Lincolnshire Echo and Derby Evening Telegraph.

Linda Grant, currently group commercial development director, will replace Auckland at Metro.

Daily Mail and General Trust executives have been reported saying that the company is interested in any "worthwhile approaches" for Northcliffe. There has also been speculation that Trinity Mirror may be interested in taking control of Northcliffe in return for giving DMGT cash and shares.

Pics: Pelosi (left); Leys (right)