Sky News appoints new security editor

Sky News has announced the appointment of veteran journalist Sam Kiley to the newly-created role of security editor.

Kiley, the former Middle East and Africa bureau chief at The Times, has joined Sky News to deliver insight and analysis on security threats to the UK, both at home and abroad.

Drawing on his 20 years experience of covering conflicts around the world, Kiley will keep Sky News viewers informed about security issues on the broadcaster's TV, online, mobile and radio services.

Sky News has also announced the appointment of Niall Paterson to the role of defence correspondent, after he previously acted as a political reporter for the channel.

Using his government contacts, Paterson will break exclusive defence stories, as well as analyse the latest strategies coming out of the Ministry of Defence.

During his time as a political correspondent, Paterson covered the 2010 election campaign and broke the story about Gordon Brown's 'bigot' comment about Gillian Duffy.

Mark Evans, head of home news at Sky News, said: "Both Sam and Niall have already demonstrated they have the contacts and skills to deliver the kind of breaking news on which Sky News has made its name.

"But, more than that, each has positioned himself at the forefront of Sky News' multimedia approach in the digital age. The fact that we have invested in these big-hitters shows Sky’s commitment to two of the most significant news briefs of the coming decade."

Last week, Sky News hired former ITV presenter Lucy Cotter as its new entertainment correspondent, covering events such as the Oscars and BAFTAs.