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With data at the core of The Independent’s business model, Elevate was engaged to support two critical executive appointments: a high-calibre Chief Data Officer to join the SLT and strengthen the organisation’s position as an industry innovator, and a new Chief Executive Officer. An internal candidate, Broughton has been with The Independent since 2005, holding key editorial and commercial leadership roles, including Editor and Managing Director of Ventures, and has played a pivotal role in its successful digital transformation.

With the outgoing CEO relocating to the U.S., The Independent sought a London-based CEO to lead its next phase of growth, diversify revenue streams, enhance profitability, expand globally, and leverage digital innovation while maintaining editorial integrity and the brand’s core values. Simultaneously, an exceptional Chief Data Officer was required to lead a large, close-knit team, strengthen data insights, and transform how content engages The Independent’s audience.

Christian Broughton was appointed CEO for his deep institutional knowledge, editorial and commercial expertise, and proven ability to deliver transformative results. He now leads The Independent in advancing global expansion, evolving strategy, growing reader revenues, and leveraging data-driven, digital-first approaches to ensure long-term profitability and sustainable growth. Complementing this leadership, Steph Fabb joined as Chief Data Officer, poised to implement future data strategies and further strengthen The Independent’s position as a world-leading digital news and lifestyle publisher.