ECREA has more than 3,000 members across Europe and comprises of 24 sections, three networks, and five temporary working groups. It organises conferences, seminars and summer schools, as well as publishing book series and sharing information to its members via a range of communication channels. In addition, it lobbies on behalf of the field nationally and across the continent.

Speaking about his new position, Professor Downey commented: “This is a great honour for me personally, but also a reflection of the standing of Loughborough in the field of communication and testament to the outstanding research culture in communication, established by Peter Golding and Michael Billig in the early 1990s which continues to thrive.

“I would like to thank the members of ECREA for placing their trust in me despite Brexit. It is a challenging time for learned societies given the need to adapt to the continuing pandemic and climate change. During my Presidency, I aim to advance the cause of decolonising the field in Europe as well as encouraging British-based scholars to continue to collaborate with colleagues in the rest of Europe and vice-versa.”

John was previously Director of the Centre for Communication and Culture (2016-2019) at the University and Head of Department for Communication and Media from 2019-2021. He now serves on the REF sub-panel for Communication D34; on the ESRC’s Grants Assessment Panel; as well as being a member of the Executive for MeCCSA since 2012, a national association that represents all who teach or research in media, communications and cultural studies.