Different Narrative appoints non-exec director

Newcastle-based creative marketing agency Different Narrative has appointed Orange Bus founder Julian Leighton as non-executive director.

Julian co-founded digital agency Orange Bus and stepped down in 2020 following its acquisition by Capita.

He also holds non-executive roles at Hedgehog Labs and Land Digital.

In his new position, Julian will work closely with managing director Kieron Goldsborough and the senior leadership team, providing strategic guidance, mentoring and business support.

He said: “Different Narrative is in a really good place and Kieron and the team have dealt really well with some very challenging market conditions over recent years.

“It’s exciting working with a well-run business which is on the way up. I think we’re going to make a decent dent in the landscape, and I’m glad to be part of that.”

Different Narrative delivers marketing, creative, film, digital and PR services to regional and national clients. 

Julian’s appointment follows the launch of its ‘All in’ subscription model and a series of recent new business wins as the agency continues to grow.

Kieron added: “Julian brings exactly the right attributes we need right now – plus he has lived experience of how to build and scale an agency. 

“He’s honest and is a great sounding board for our ideas.

“We had a phenomenal year in 2025 for client wins and we’ve already had an incredibly strong start to 2026. 

“Now it’s all about building on the agency’s solid foundations, growing the team, getting sustained growth and proving the impact of ‘All in’ to continue to disrupt the market. 

“Julian is the perfect partner to help us achieve all that.”

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