The former managing director of Newsquest Cumbria has joined a PR and media consultancy.

Jonathan Lee, who stepped down from his role at the publisher last month, has been appointed as a company director of 32 West, based in Ulverston.

He joins former colleagues and fellow company directors James Higgins and Frank Stretton in the business.

Jonathan said: “After 30 years in the media industry I am looking forward to this new opportunity and to using my experience to help businesses and organisations to grow and to help further develop 32West."

As well as operating as a managing director, as a former editor and publisher of in-Cumbria business magazine, energy publications in association with Britain’s Energy Coast, and one of the founders and chairman of the Choose Cumbria partnership, Jonathan has worked closely with businesses and organisations for more than a decade.

Born and bred in Lancashire, and having spent much of his career in the regional media in the north of England and in Scotland, Jonathan said he was looking forward to a new challenge.

James, who founded the business in May last year, said: “To have someone of Jonathan’s calibre, experience and drive as part of the 32West team is very exciting.

“He is passionate about business, passionate about Cumbria and is a fantastic addition to the team.

“Jonathan joining the team now gives us the opportunity to enter the next phase of our growth."

Frank added: “We have worked hard in our first year to build our reputation as a PR and content marketing business which delivers great results for its clients.

“It’s great to be partnering up again with Jonathan and I’m looking forward to seeing the business grow further."