'Businesses need people who understand the whole picture': Northern Ireland consultancy taps ex-UTV boss to lead expansion as video and podcast demand surges
Michael Wilson brings nearly 30 years of senior media experience from UTV, ITV and Sky News, plus strategic advisory credentials as former chief executive of the Isle of Man Government's media investment business
Belfast communications consultancy Clearbox has announced that a former UTV managing director has joined its team as executive director to scale business amid a surge in video, podcast and C-suite advisory demand.
Michael Wilson brings nearly 30 years of senior media experience from UTV, ITV and Sky News, plus strategic advisory credentials as former chief executive of the Isle of Man Government's media investment business.
Wilson's primary focus will be to fuel Clearbox's ambition to become the go-to communications agency for video-first content creation, podcast development, and C-suite communications advisory for clients in the UK, Ireland and across Europe.
The appointment reflects a shift in how businesses communicate, with 82% of online traffic now video-based, and podcasts reaching 28 million UK listeners monthly.
“PR has changed fundamentally,” said Michael Wilson, executive director of Clearbox.
“Video, digital and social aren’t ‘nice to have’ anymore, they're fundamental to the communications playbook. Businesses need people who understand the whole picture: how good communications, brand and positioning drive the bottom line, plus how to protect reputation when things go sideways.
"Clearbox has done brilliant work for incredible brands like Amazon, Deliveroo, Oatly and more. I’m naturally excited to help them build on that.”
John Megaughin, managing director of Clearbox, added: “We’ve built such a solid company since we opened our doors in 2013, but we wanted someone at Michael’s level to help us scale up even further.
"He’s worked at the top end of broadcasting, has run many a busy newsroom, understands reputation inside out, and gets that great communication isn’t about being clever - it’s about impact.
"I didn’t think I’d ever meet someone who loves the media more than I do, but now I have in Michael. He’s the perfect fit for where we’re going, the team’s buzzing to work with him, and we’re looking forward to what he’ll bring to our business and our brilliant clients.”