Brighton Digital Festival names its first ever chair

Brighton Digital Festival today (Friday) announces its chair as Jon Pratty, a digital thought leader who helped create the festival in 2011.

This is the first time Brighton Digital Festival has appointed a chair, marking an exciting step forward for the fastest growing digital festival in the UK, which takes place throughout September.

Mr Pratty has had an extensive career in the arts and digital sector, including roles with the Arts Council England and digital publishing companies, such as Culture24 and The 24 Hour Museum.

As chair he will be responsible for steering the strategy of the grassroots festival and leading the consortium group.

Mr Pratty, said: "I'm immensely pleased to join as chair at this exciting time in Brighton Digital Festival's development. The consortium model that steers the festival is unique in that it draws both digital industry and creative sector organisations together.

'This supports the festival in creating a socially centred approach to programming, that reflects the needs and wants of the region's thriving digital and creative industries."

Miriam Randall, executive director at digital culture agency Lighthouse and member of Brighton Digital Festival Consortium, added: 'Brighton Digital Festival is driven by the collaborative approach and passion of its diverse communities. As an active and committed advocate for digital culture in the region for many years, Jon will be a fantastic chair.'

For more information on Brighton Digital Festival 2015 please visit: www.brightondigitalfestival.co.uk or follow @DigitalBrighton on Twitter.