Hunt, previously the news brand’s online editorial director, will take over effective immediately
Hunt has been with the Express for more than eight years in a variety of senior roles. He led the title’s first team devoted to video, as well as held the title of head of news for the site.
As online editorial director, he led several projects to boost digital engagement, producing strong growth in a challenging digital marketplace.
On the appointment, Hunt said: “I’m honoured to be taking on this role and to build on what the team has already achieved. In the last year, the Express has infiltrated Just Stop Oil, shown how TikTok and Instagram are aiding Albanian people smugglers, captured the effects of a new drug destroying lives on Britain’s streets, and exposed an ISIS terror plot to target Olympics and Wembley.”
He added: “There is a huge opportunity here which I’m excited to take further, both digitally and in print, particularly as we cover Labour’s first months in office and see out a Conservative leadership contest.”
Hunt will replace outgoing editor-in-chief Gary Jones, who has stepped down from the role he has held since 2018.
His tenure saw a greater emphasis on campaigning journalism, with highlights including the Green Britain campaign, a successful fight to better protect domestic violence victims in the court system and the news brand’s long-term battle to secure more effective treatments for cystic fibrosis on the NHS.
Jones said: “It’s been a privilege to have served the readers for so many years. Long may they continue to value and cherish the journalism we publish.
“I have tried my level best to continue in the great campaigning traditions of the Mirror and Express and would like to offer my appreciation to the colleagues, politicians, organisations and individuals who have shared my passion for bringing positive change.
“I’ve had the greatest of times, and felt fortunate to have met and collaborated with some of the most fascinating, inspirational and creative people, who have hugely enriched my career and life.”
