Kraft’s Phil Smith named as new director general of ISBA

ISBA, the trade body representing UK advertisers, has announced that Kraft’s marketing director, Phil Smith, is to become its new director general.

Smith – who formerly sat on ISBA’s Executive Committee, which he later chaired while commercial and operations director of Camelot – takes over from Mike Hughes, who is stepping down after 10 years.

“There was strong competition for this role and we are delighted with this appointment,” said ISBA President, Simon Litherland, CEO of Britvic. “Phil brings depth and breadth of industry experience together with a progressive outlook – and he knows ISBA well.”

Smith added: “With the marketing communications ecosystems changing at an increasing pace, advertisers need a strong and effective ISBA more than ever to continue to champion their cause, and be the trusted source of expert, objective advice and guidance – from the advertiser’s viewpoint.

“I’m hugely excited by this opportunity to build on Mike’s excellent stewardship and to be a catalyst in shaping ISBA’s agenda, so that it maintains a clear and robust voice and delivers value to its members in this fast-moving environment.”

Smith, who has also worked for Kwiksave, Somerfield and Musgrave, will take up his role on 9 January 2017.