Two new members have been appointed to the Independent Complaints Panel – the independent lay panel that considers complaints about irresponsible alcohol marketing under the Portman Group’s Codes of Practice.
Claire Fowler and Graeme Mckenzie have joined the Panel following an open and competitive recruitment process. They both bring relevant drinks marketing experience to the Panel, consistent with the usual balance of the Panel.
Claire works for an independent marketing company and brings a wealth of experience from the drinks industry, as well as previously leading her employer’s corporate social responsibility work.
Graeme is Strategy and Planning Director at WPR in Birmingham, and brings experience of branding, communication and marketing.
Jenny Watson, Chairman of the Independent Complaints Panel who made the appointments said:
“The Independent Complaints Panel members are vital in upholding the standards for alcohol marketing and packaging as set out in the Portman Group Code of Practice. Our two new members have previously worked in the alcohol industry, and that experience and knowledge is key in maintaining the right balance of the Panel. We had a number of excellent applications and Claire and Graeme bring a valued depth of experience to our independent panel of responsible alcohol marketing.”
Each appointment is for a fixed term of three years with the option to carry on for a second three-year term. The posts were advertised publicly and attracted a strong field of applicants.