Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games - Glasgow 2014 appoints Head of Media

Glasgow 2014 appoints Head of Media

A former leading Scottish journalist has been appointed to direct Glasgow 2014's media relations strategy in the run up to the XX Commonwealth Games.

Janette Harkess joins Glasgow 2014 as the organisation's Head of Media at a key time for the Games, with just under 1,000 days to go until the Opening Ceremony.

A central element of her role will be to drive forward the media engagement strategy for the Games as well as profile-raising activity across Scotland, the UK and internationally in advance of Glasgow 2014.

She will also provide strategic advice to senior management and board members on media activity, to ensure the Games enjoy a significant amount of coverage and reach as many people as possible to create a tangible air of excitement around this global sporting event.

A former Deputy Editor of both The Herald and The Evening Times, Janette has also held senior editorial management posts with the Scottish Daily Mail and the Sunday Mail.

She joins Glasgow 2014 from the Scottish Council for Development and Industry where she has been Director of Policy and Research since 2009. SCDI is Scotland’s leading independent economic development network with a membership which spans civic and corporate Scotland and whose aim is to inspire government and key stakeholders to create and deliver sustainable economic growth.

Welcoming her appointment Glasgow 2014's Director of Communications and Marketing, Gordon Arthur said: “We are delighted to have someone of Janette's calibre join the team. She brings a deep knowledge of Scotland's media, business and civic landscape and a real passion for Glasgow and the Games.

"With a little under three years to go, we look forward to the contribution she will make to the organisation as we enter this crucial period for Glasgow 2014. Janette will build on the work already done to raise awareness of the Games, their impact and the legacy they will leave Glasgow and Scotland."

Janette Harkess added: "Through Glasgow 2014, Scotland has a fantastic opportunity, not just to showcase our world-class credentials in global event delivery, but also to inspire individuals, businesses and our nation to be more confident in our ability to compete.

“I look forward to being part of a team committed to delivering a successful and dynamic Commonwealth Games experience of lasting positive impact and of which our nation can be proud.”

Janette Harkess joins Glasgow 2014 on Monday 5th December.