Angus McBride has been appointed as General Counsel, News UK, and will oversee all legal activity and compliance for the business that publishes The Times, The Sunday Times, The Sun, The Sun on Sunday and the Times Literary Supplement.

McBride (pictured above) is currently Partner at law firm Kingsley Napley where he has built up a formidable reputation and is renowned for his tenacity and excellence.

He has been described by Chambers UK as ‘a bright, media-savvy tactical genius’ and his career has included representation of high profile individuals in public life, members of the armed forces, financiers, actors, entertainers and sports stars. He was the lead solicitor for Rebekah Brooks during the trial in 2013-14.

Rebekah Brooks, CEO of News UK said: “When I first spoke to Angus last autumn about joining us in this capacity, he was reluctant to give up the work that he loves.

“I am thrilled that he has decided to join us as he is always ten steps ahead and has a huge capacity to grasp quickly the full spectrum of issues. I have come to trust him implicitly and believe that News UK will benefit from his legal expertise, wise advice and strategic approach.”

Commenting on his new role, Mr McBride said: “I am delighted to be joining News UK and look forward to working with its superb team of lawyers to provide legal advice and assistance throughout the Company, and to Rebekah and the executive team.

“I hope that my 25 years in practice working at the cutting edge of high profile litigation will strengthen the team in confronting the ever more complex legal landscape the industry faces. I relish the challenge.”

He will join News UK in early April and will be a member of the Executive Team. He replaces current General Counsel Emma Moloney who is departing at the end of January for a role yet to be announced.

Ms Brooks added: “I want to thank Emma for her contribution to News UK over what has been an extremely busy time for the legal team. She was a terrific leader of the department and I wish her all the best in her new role.”