Pacific Magazines commercial director Prue Cox has quit the role after 16 months to join LinkedIn in an undisclosed position.

In a blow for the embattled magazine publisher, Cox’s appointment was hailed by bosses when she was recruited away from NewsLifeMedia in June last year.

Coincidentally, Cox replaced Gereurd Roberts who is now company CEO.

In a statement to staff this morning obtained by B&T, Roberts said:  “I’m writing to let you know that Prue Cox, Commercial Director, will be leaving the business to take up a senior role with LinkedIn. Her last day with us is this Friday, 27th October.

“Prue has been an asset to Pacific over the last 15 months, helping drive the transformation of our business in the commercial space. We would like to thank Prue for all her hard work and commitment during this time.

“In the interim I am pleased to announce Nicole Bence will step into the role as Acting Commercial Director, until we name a permanent replacement. This will ensure we maintain the consistency and momentum necessary to continue the drive towards our Q2 targets, which are number one priority for us all and must remain our focus. Prue and Nicole are working on a full and thorough handover, so we should not skip a beat.”