New Editor for Manawatu Standard

Media Statement

18 October 2006

New Editor for Manawatu Standard

Paul Taggart has been appointed Editor of the Manawatu Standard, commencing his role on 20 November 2006.

Paul brings a wealth of skills to the Manawatu Standard, says Gerard Watt, General Manager of the Palmerston North-based newspaper.

“Paul has a strong background in journalism, management and editorial training and has had much success in the redesigns of newspapers in New Zealand and Australia. I look forward to seeing his leadership and influence shape the future of the Manawatu Standard,” says Gerard.

Since the beginning of this year Paul has been Training Editor at newspaper publisher APN, with responsibility for group training. He has also been involved in a number of editorial projects and initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency, professionalism and quality of journalism.

Peter O’Hara, Fairfax Media Editor-in-Chief, says “Fairfax Media welcomes Paul to our team of accomplished editors and looks forward to gaining the benefit of his editorial leadership skills at the Manawatu Standard. His personal attributes and experience in regional journalism will be of significant value at the Standard and in the Manawatu community.”

Paul began his journalism career in the UK. He came to New Zealand in the late eighties and edited community newspapers in Ohakune and Taumarunui before moving to the Daily Telegraph in Napier as chief subeditor. He held a number of senior roles with the Daily Telegraph before the paper merged with the Hastings-based Herald Tribune in 1999 to create Hawke’s Bay Today, APN’s largest-circulation regional daily. Paul was initially deputy editor, then associate editor from 2001.

Paul has also written a book on Hawke's Bay wine, which was published in 2004.

Paul is looking forward to joining Fairfax Media and getting to know the Manawatu Standard team and the local community.

Ends

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