October 3, 2013updated 11 Oct 2013 4:48pm

Former Johnston Press digital chief Henry Faure Walker to replace Davidson as Newsquest chief exec

Digital and business development director Henry Faure Walker has been named as the next chief executive of Newsquest.

Current chief exec Paul Davidson will stand down on 1 April 2014, but will stay on as the company’s chairman.

Faure Walker has worked at Johnston Press for 11 years and spent time as general manager of The Scotsman Publications as well as managing director of Johnston Press Ventures.

In a rare public comment, Davidson said in a press statement: “I am delighted that Henry will be joining Newsquest, and believe that his abilities to develop and implement strong digital strategies, as well as his appreciation of our print heritage, will further help build on our many successes.”

Faure Walker said he was excited by Newquest’s move towards “a vibrant multimedia business.”

“It is a terrific company with a strong future, fully focused on providing the outstanding products and services consumers and customers want and need.”

The company publishes more than 200 titles including The Herald in Glasgow; the Northern Echo in Darlington and The Argus in Brighton.