Seven has announced the appointment of Shoebridge Knowles Media Group (SKMG) to define and drive the group’s corporate communications and publicity strategies working alongside Seven's existing team.

SKMG, a strategic communications consultancy established in May 2018 by partners Neil Shoebridge and Andrew Knowles, will commence working for SWM at a date to be advised.

“We are delighted to announce our partnership with SKMG. Having worked closely together with Neil and Andrew over a number of years, we know that their vast experience, understanding and enthusiasm for our industry will make a big difference to our business," Seven Managing Director and CEO, James Warburton says.

Shoebridge says: “With strong and successful brands across television, publishing and digital, SWM is one of Australia’s best and smartest content companies and a business with enormous potential. We are honoured to join the SWM team and be part of the transformation of the group and its future success.”

Seven CMO Charlotte Valente says the move will help develop the network's transformation of its television, newspaper and digital assets, as it pursues an audience-first content-led growth strategy.

“When Neil and I launched SKMG, James and Charlotte were our first clients. Between the success we’ve enjoyed with them in the past, the privilege to work with the rest of SWM’s well-regarded leadership team and the opportunity to continue building one of Australia’s most venerable media groups, this partnership just makes sense," Knowles says.

As a result of the move Julia Lefort, the director of corporate affairs and publicity will depart.