A council’s former communications chief is set to become a director at a digital and publishing agency with clients including Robbie Williams and ITV.

Simon Wakeman will join Canterbury-based Deeson Group in April in a bid to spearhead growth at the firm – the UK’s oldest customer publishing company, established for 55 years.

The former head of communications and marketing at Medway Council and East Sussex County Council has been hired to develop new opportunities with private and public sector clients.

His PR and marketing experience spans financial services, e-commerce, telecoms, retail and local government.

He marketed the launch the UK’s first interactive TV service and customer experience management for a major internet bank.

In 2013, his contribution to digital practice in the public sector was recognised in the national Digital Leaders 50 Awards.

Deeson Group managing director Tim Deeson said: “Simon’s significant experience across digital, marketing and communications will enhance our success working with blue chip companies, professional bodies, major media brands and some of the public sector’s largest organisations.”

Mr Wakeman, who become’s Deeson’s director of communications and marketing, said: “I’m really excited to be joining Deeson Group in this new role.

“I’m looking forward to working with the team to deliver innovative and strategic marketing communications projects to help grow the Deeson Group business further.”