The Portman Group has announced the appointment of Nick Baird as its new Chair.
As a former senior diplomat and business leader, Nick has a wealth of experience with an impressive career spanning thirty years in government and several more in the private sector.
During his 30 years in government, Nick was Chief Executive of UK Trade and Investment, Ambassador to Turkey, and Foreign and Commonwealth Office Director General Europe and Economic, as well as serving in various other posts in Europe and the Middle East. Most recently, he has been Chair of the Trade Remedies Authority and Chair of the charity, Carers UK.
During his time in the private sector, Nick was Group Corporate Affairs Director of the international energy company Centrica for 8 years, as well as a Non-Executive Director of the international education company, Nord Anglia
The Portman Group’s independent Chair is responsible for chairing the Council which comprises the CEOs of the 18 member companies who fund the self-regulatory system.
Nick was chosen from a strong field of candidates and the Portman Group was assisted in the selection by Spencer Stuart.
Nick will replace outgoing Chair Philip Rycroft who is stepping down after five years in post. Nick will formally take up the role on 1 February.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Portman Group as their new Independent Chair and excited to work closely with the team to bring our member companies together and further encourage responsible best practice across the industry," said Baird. "The Portman Group has a remarkable record of highly effective self regulation over the last 30 years and as a big supporter of corporate social responsibility I’m looking forward to getting to work.”
Matt Lambert, Chief Executive of the Portman Group added: “I’m delighted to welcome Nick as our new Chair, and have no doubt with his vast and impressive experience across government and the private sector that he will bring a huge amount of insight to the alcohol industry. I would like to also take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our departing Chair Philip Rycroft who has made an incredible impact during his five years at the Portman Group.”
