Focus on continued growth

PSE appoints new managing director

(L-R) Phil Newton, Rob Newton and new managing director Melissa Shackleton
(L-R) Phil Newton, Rob Newton and new managing director Melissa Shackleton

Family-run business PSE Agency has appointed Melissa Shackleton in the new role of managing director, marking the team’s first executive shake-up since the company was formed 30 years ago.

Co-founded in 1995 by brothers Phil and Rob Newton, PSE has evolved its traditional print mail agency to encompass a multichannel approach underpinned by data-driven marketing.

It works alongside high-profile brands such as HelloFresh, IKEA, Secret Escapes, and The Wine Society, who have all embedded direct mail as an integral part of their marketing mix.

Shackleton, who started in the role earlier this month, has joined from Hotel Chocolat, where she most recently served as its chief business development officer. In this role she had also worked with PSE’s founders on many occasions.

“It’s a wonderful time to be joining PSE and the wider team at this pivotal point in their history; a huge testament to their expertise in this fast-paced market,” she said.

“The unique proposition that PSE have created with the six direct marketing services they offer feels like a huge opportunity for many UK businesses and with my experience within a fast growth entrepreneurial business like Hotel Chocolat, I feel well placed to set PSE and their clients up for success.”

The senior team changes will see a shift in their responsibilities, enabling Phil Newton to focus on business operations and Rob Newton to nurture existing client relationships.

Shackleton’s interim focus will be on enhancing the company’s Six Step Direct Marketing Cycle and bolstering the team in preparation for continued growth.

Co-founder and CEO Rob Newton commented: “I’m ecstatic about the business and the opportunities available to us. And getting to work with a long-term friend and industry peer who brings different skills to the mix is a bonus. I’ve no doubt we’ll make our 30th anniversary a year to remember.”

COO Phil Newton added: “We are hugely excited by the promise of having Melissa on the team. She has a great reputation and spades of commercial experience which will help us grow more sustainably in the years ahead.”

PSE outsources its printing although the team said it works closely with its chosen printers to ensure sustainable best practice.

With a team of 22 people split between its London and Droitwich offices, the company has made a number of other senior hires in recent years to back up its growth strategy.