Kevin Johnson - Managing Director
Kevin established Urban Communications Limited following a successful career in ITV. Responsible at Board level for corporate communications and public affairs at ITV Central, he established a highly respected reputation for the broadcaster in regional affairs. He played a leading role in a number of major projects for Central, including two key building developments, three brand changes and a series of regulatory and legislative lobbying campaigns. Kevin re-engaged the company in the public and community sectors with ITV Central now firmly positioned as one of the Midlands’ leading corporate citizens.
Among Kevin’s projects was the award winning development of a diversity policy, aimed at improving the portrayal of black and Asian communities on screen and developing a more diverse workforce. He introduced the Midlander of the Year award scheme - conceived in 1969 but discontinued in 1998 - ensuring the title regained prominence in a modern television format. He also developed a number of commercial initiatives including joint media ventures, programme brand exploitations and advertiser funded production deals.
Kevin spent ten years with the broadcaster, the last two at board level. His career with ITV followed four years in consultancy where Kevin managed a number of broadcast and not-for-profit sector accounts. During his time with ITV, Kevin was involved with and helped lead a number of external organisations. In 2001/02, he was seconded to Birmingham City Council where he ran Birmingham and Solihull’s acclaimed campaign for the National Stadium.
Kevin is an LEA Governor and Chairman of Lordswood Girls’ School and Specialist Centre for Media Arts in Birmingham. He is the elected Chairman of the Marketing Society in the Midlands and an Honorary Vice President of the Publicity Association of Central England. He is also a non executive director of the Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company.
