Drinkaware appoints first chief executive

The Drinkaware Trust, the charity that promotes responsible drinking in the UK, has appointed Jean Collingwood as its first chief executive. She takes over the role in mid-July.

The role has been overseen by Kevin Byrne, who was seconded from the civil service, since November last year.

Collingwood has over 15 years’ experience in marketing and the charity sector. She is a former chief executive of the Great British Wheelchair Rugby chief executive and Ingenious Group, a social marketing consultancy. She has also held various roles at 4Children, Leonard Cheshire and the Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

Drinkaware chairman Debra Shipley says: “She has a great range of experience in both the not-for-profit sector and in the commercial environment. I believe she will be a great asset to the team and the perfect person to take Drinkaware forward”.

The trust was established as a standalone body by alcohol industry body The Portman Group in April 2006. It has a remit to change drinking habits by providing practical advice and information.