Former Economist CEO Helen Alexander to chair UBM board

Former Economist Group chief executive Dame Helen Alexander has been appointed as the new chairman of business-to-business publisher UBM.

Alexander, who also chairs the board of publisher Incisive Media, will take up the position next month, replacing John Botts.

Botts said in a release: "Dame Helen most certainly brings both a broad business background and particular experience of the business media sector which will serve UBM's board and shareholders well."

Alexander joined the Economist in 1985 and became chief executive in 1997, spending 11 years in the job until she stepped down in June 2008.

UBM chief executive David Levin added: "Dame Helen has deep and rich business, media and content experience and expertise, and I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to build UBM."

UBM employs some 6,000 staff in 30 countries and produces magazines, events, websites and data services.

The group, which publishes titles including Building and Property Week, has been busy disposing of many of its legacy print brands and has been acquiring events and trade fairs.

Free daily newsletter

If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).