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November 10, 2015

News UK director of communications Guto Harri steps down saying post-hacking mission is completed

By Dominic Ponsford

News UK director of communications chief Guto Harri is stepping down after three years.

His departure follows that of head of PR Richard Brookes in February.

The job of rebuilding the company's reputation in the wake of the hacking scandal is, according to the former BBC journalist, done.

Here is his farewell email to colleagues:

I have decided to leave News UK after three fascinating and fulfilling years. This Christmas will be my last here and I look forward to making the most of it!

This is a fantastic company. The journalism is second to none, and the whole firm is fuelled by an energy, passion and pioneering spirit.

It has been a privilege to work here and I am proud of the part I have sought to play countering appalling  coverage of the company, rebuilding our reputation, mending political bridges and hopefully helping to restore a sense of composure and confidence after difficult times.

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I explained my mission in an interview with an inferior publication [The Guardian] when I joined back in May 2012 (click here to read). That job is now done and I am grateful to everyone who helped achieve it – not least my executive colleagues and wonderful team in Corporate Affairs.

The focus of this company going forward will rightly be on our papers. Corporate functions are crucial but they are ultimately there to fund, support and promote that front line.

We have talked repeatedly over the last three years about securing a sustainable future for our world-class professional journalism and done much to secure it.  With Rebekah's charismatic and committed leadership I have no doubt that future will be bright, and I will remain a friend and fan of this company and what it does wherever I rock up next.

Diolch yn fawr!

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