David Howes qualified as a journalist through the National Council for the Training of Journalists four-year apprenticeship scheme. He attended Darlington College of Technology in 1969-70, gaining the NCTJ Certificate with distinction, before joining his hometown evening newspaper, The Hull Daily Mail, for the remaining three years of qualification.
He served four years with the Hull Daily Mail, both as a news desk reporter and main feature writer, before being appointed in October 1974 as the first-ever Public Relations Officer for The Rugby Football League, governing body of the 13-a-side code.
As the role expanded to include sponsorship, event management and public speaking, the job role was expanded to Public Affairs Executive, and eventually Deputy Chief Executive.
During a senior executive career at club level with St. Helens RLFC and Leeds Rugby Ltd, Howes continued as the media chief of both organisations.
Since the formation of Howes Etc, public relations skills have been interwoven into the player management, sponsorship and event management activities.
