John Furbisher
A seasoned and respected media and communications executive, John has a high-profile track record in journalistic leadership, public relations and campaign strategy. A confident and energetic publicist, award-winning editor and writer, he has excellent skills of communication, influencing and international reputational development.
John has extensive political, public affairs and media contacts in the UK and the European institutions. His knowledge of politics in Westminster and Brussels, combined with his inside understanding of how newsrooms work in London and the regions, is unmatchable. He knows how journalists, bloggers and editors think.
As well editing two daily papers and working as a staff reporter for the Sunday Times, he spent the four years before setting up Furbisher Media running the communications operation for Britain's Conservative MEPs
Head of media, Conservative MEPs in the European Parliament
July 2011 - October 2015
Directing media strategy for the UK's delegation to the ECR Group in the European Parliament. Heading press relations, political campaigning and communication internationally across traditional and new media. Liaison with UK Government officials, NGOs, EU institutions, global broadcast media and press. Crisis management, media training, speech-writing and collaboration on election campaign strategy.
Editor, The Star
January 2010 - May 2011
Editor of Sheffield's daily newspaper and associated news website - leading 60 journalists, driving digital innovation and fighting key campaigns on policy and profile. Planning and managing a £2 million-plus budget and leading a comprehensive programme of change management.
Editor, Evening Courier
January 2009 - July 2013
Editing the daily newspaper, website and a stable of weekly titles and magazines in Halifax West Yorkshire. Oversaw structural change, directed development of digital media and 24-hour publishing and led several successful and award-winning policy and awareness campaigns.
Deputy editor, head of content, news editor, the Yorkshire Post
October 1993 - July 2003
Filled a series of senior editorial riles at one of Britain's most-respected regional newspapers, including a six-month spell as acting editor, managing a £4 million budget and leading a 100-strong editorial team.
News reporter, Sunday Times
June 1989 - October 1993
Staff reporter at Britain's biggest-selling quality newspaper, covering politics and general news. Regularly contributing front page stories from own initiative and impeccable contacts.
Voluntary
March 2015
Banja Luka, Serbia. Course leader on Westminster Foundation for Democracy seminar: Bosnian Women's Programme, Communications Training.
Education
Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield
St John's College, Oxford, Theology undergraduate
Further Qualifications
2004 – 2005: Johnston Press, Senior Management Development Programme, run by Roffey Park leadership institute.
January - June 2013: European Union inter-institutional language school, French level 4.