LONDON — Burson Cohn & Wolfe has hired Steve Hawkes, the Sun’s deputy political editor, into the newly-created post of head of strategic media.

Hawkes has worked on the national newspaper since December 2013. He was previously its business editor for five years and has also worked at the Times, Daily Telegraph, the Mirror, PA and the Evening Standard over a 25-year journalism career.

As a director in BCW’s UK issues and public affairs team, Hawkes will provide strategic communications advice and media counsel to clients, reporting to London issues and public affairs MD Nick Williams, who said: “The talent and experience of someone like Steve Hawkes is hard to beat. His knowledge and insight from everything from politics to business will be a major asset to our team.”

BCW President for Europe and Africa Scott Wilson added: “This is a key marquee hire for BCW UK and once again shows our commitment to hiring the very best communications talent available. Over the last year, BCW has grown significantly as a business. Being able to attract people with Steve’s calibre and experience is another game-changer for us and one which we know will add huge benefit to our clients.”

Hawkes said: “I have had a great career in journalism, covering some of the most important stories on some of the UK’s most-recognised news outlets. But it’s a perfect time to be moving to BCW and I look forward to working with what is a really impressive mix of people and clients as the agency goes from strength to strength.”