Alastair Gornall appointed as FT Longitude chairman

21^st February 2017

Alastair Gornall has been appointed non-executive chairman of FT Longitude, the London-based thought leadership specialist, effective immediately. His mandate is to help support the company’s next phase of growth, brand recognition and reach.

Gornall has held director and non-executive positions and advisory roles in leading international media, communications and event businesses for over three decades. He brings senior Board experience to FT Longitude, in addition to unparalleled knowledge of agency organisations and FT Longitude’s key markets. Gornall is currently non-executive chairman of Hanover Communications, Finn PR and The Moment, and a Strategic Advisor to Gartner Events. He previously held Board positions at Blue Rubicon, Reed Exhibitions and Consolidated Communications Group.

Alastair Gornall said: “FT Longitude is a new type of agency with a unique offering, a great team and an impressive track record of growth. The company already works with many of the world’s largest and most prestigious brands, as a key partner on their thought leadership campaigns. I see huge opportunities for FT Longitude to become the recognised leader in its space in the future, while also expanding across a range of new sectors and markets. I’m excited to bring my experience of advising and growing world-class agencies to the business.”

Commenting on the appointment, Rob Mitchell, co-founder and CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alastair to FT Longitude as non-executive chairman. Alastair has a deep understanding of how specialist agencies operate and brings a wealth of experience in chairing boards and guiding companies with a strong emphasis on communication. I am confident he will play a vital role in supporting FT Longitude in our growth.”

James Watson, co-founder and CFO, said: “This announcement marks part of a planned transition in the next phase of FT Longitude’s development and we are pleased to welcome him as part of the leadership team to help devise and deliver our future strategy.”

Gornall succeeds FT Longitude’s prior non-executive chairman, Sir Eric Peacock, who had been in post for two years.