New Chairman for Shortlist Media

Shortlist Media today announces that Mike Soutar, one of the original co-founders of the company in 2007, is to step down as Chairman, a part-time role he has held since 2016. He will leave the Board at the end of November 2018.

Ellis Watson, Executive Chairman of DC Thomson Media, is to take the role and will work with Chief Executive Ella Dolphin and her team. This will be Ellis’ second term as Chairman; he previously chaired Shortlist Media following DC Thomson’s acquisition of the business.

Mike says: “I’ve been so lucky to have worked with so many amazing people during my time at Shortlist Media. The challenges we’ve tackled and the success that we have shared over the last 11 years is more than I ever could have possibly dreamed at the start. I’m also grateful to Ellis and the Directors of DC Thomson for their support over the years. I wish the business and its talented leadership team, led by CEO Ella Dolphin, every success in future.”

Shortlist Media is a pioneer of freemium media – with powerful, multi-award-winning brands spanning print, digital, email, social media and large scale live events. The business operates in the UK and in joint venture with Groupe Marie Claire in France.

Mike has been building a portfolio of other business interests over the last two years. He comments: “My passion is working with start-ups to help them get off the ground and grow. I look forward to continuing this work, as well as developing one or two new ventures in which I plan to take a more central role.”

Mike is also a Board member of IPSO, the UK’s Independent Press Standards Organisation, the regulatory body which oversees the majority of British newspapers and magazines.

Ellis comments: “It goes without saying that Mike has been an incredible driving force at Shortlist Media, turning an idea into a globally recognised brand. I am personally very pleased to be returning to the saddle and look forward to working with the team.”