Timothy replaces Henry Ashworth who joined the drinks watchdog in October 2011 following the departure of former boss David Poley. Ashworth, stepped down in December 2016 to take up the post of president of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking. Deputy chief-executive Sarah Hanratty had been covering the role in the meantime.
Timothy joins on 19 June, 2017, following a ten-year stint with Tesco, where he held a number of senior roles in communications and public affairs, working across the UK, Brussels and international operations.
Most recently he has been leading Tesco’s Group response to Brexit, working with senior business leaders to analyse the key risks, shape the business response and engage Government on its priorities for the forthcoming negotiations. He also leads on Tesco’s broader EU engagement and International government relations and sits on the CBI’s International Advisory Group and the BRC’s EU Strategy Group.
Portman Group chairman Sir Martin Narey said: “I am delighted that John is joining us as we look to strengthen our efforts to tackle alcohol-related harms and foster a balanced understanding of alcohol in our society.
“The Portman Group’s members have led the way on alcohol responsibility and I’m confident that John’s experience and leadership will make an important contribution as we seek to build on the significant progress made in recent years.”
Timothy said he was “delighted” to be joining the industry body.
“It is clear to me that the industry’s approach is having a positive impact with falling levels of alcohol misuse across the UK.
“We will strive to ensure that continues to be the case and I look forward to working closely with Portman Group members, and partners from all sectors, to help support these positive cultural changes and to tackle alcohol-related harms.”