Prolific North has been acquired by RM Communications.
The deal sees the investment vehicle take a majority stake in the business and the appointment of award-winning broadcaster and former Granada TV board director Rob McLoughlin OBE as chairman.
The acquisition signals the end of the 13-year tenure of founding chairman Mark Dickinson, a former editor of the Liverpool Echo.
The deal size has not been disclosed.
In 2025, Prolific North surpassed one million unique users for the first time.
Dickinson said: “I am delighted to be handing over the reins at such an exciting time for the company.
“This acquisition by RM Communications is a powerful vote of confidence in what we have built.
“It allows me to stand down knowing the platform has the leadership and strategic backing to reach its next stage of growth. I wish Rob and the team every success.”
McLoughlin is listed as the only director of RM Communications at Companies House.
According to the company’s website, which is currently under construction, RM Communications is behind the Educate North Awards.
Managing director Alexandra Balazs, who has led the company since January 2022, and commercial director Ben Waterhouse, who joined in 2024, both remain in post and retain significant stakes in the business.
McLoughlin is a veteran of the BAFTA-winning investigative series World in Action and an original presenter on BBC Radio 5 Live. He has been a contributor to Prolific North since its founding.
McLoughlin said: “This majority acquisition by RM Communications is designed to fuel Prolific North’s development as a multi-platform media powerhouse.
“With Alexandra and Ben continuing as key shareholders and leaders, we have the perfect blend of experience and ambition to strengthen our offering as the primary champion for the Northern creative economy.”
As part of the restructure, founder Nick Jaspan will transition to a role as advisor to the board, focusing on exploring new opportunities and growth sectors.