25 June 2015After a year as Executive Director, Joan Smith is stepping down from the post and returning to full-time writing.Joan Smith said: ‘I always intended to steer Hacked Off through the election period and was very pleased to see most of the political parties express their support for the Leveson process in their manifestos. It’s been a hectic year, and I hope a free and accountable press remains high on the political agenda.’Hugh Tomlinson QC, Chair of Hacked Off, said: ‘On behalf of the Board I want to express our heartfelt thanks to Joan for all the hard work and dedication she has shown to Hacked Off over the last 12 months. Under her leadership and direction we have managed to keep the campaign on the political agenda and in the public eye - a considerable achievement in the current circumstances. We are enormously grateful to Joan for everything she has done and wish her all the very best for the future. The next 12 months pose more challenges for Hacked Off and we will ensure we are in good shape to face them.’The board will announce new appointments in due course.Media Enquiries: press@hackinginquiry.orgPhone: 07554 665 940