The publisher of the Daily Mirror has appointed Facebook’s UK and Ireland chief as a non-executive director to boost its drive into digital publishing.

Steve Hatch, Facebook’s first managing director for its UK and Ireland operation, is joining the board of Trinity Mirror from 1 December.

Hatch, a former chief executive of WPP-owned media agency MEC, joined Facebook at the beginning of last year.

“I’m delighted to have someone of Steve’s calibre join us on the board,” said David Grigson, Trinity Mirror chairman. “Alongside his work at Facebook, his career at some of the biggest media agencies in the UK means he knows the advertising and media industry inside out. This insight and experience is hugely relevant to our business and the ongoing expansion into digital.”

Hatch will serve on Trinity Mirror’s audit, remuneration and nomination committees.

“It is with great pride and excitement that I take on this role with one of the UK’s most well respected media organisations and look forward to working with [chief executive] Simon Fox, David Grigson and my fellow board members in the future,” said Hatch.