A former White House medic has joined British American Tobacco as non-executive director.

Brigadier general (retired) Dr Richard Tubb, a leading public health figure actively involved in the science policy development of tobacco harm reduction and alternative nicotine products, took on the role this week.

The physician retired from the White House in 2009 after serving the administrations of presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama. During his leadership, which spanned 14 years, he was employed as director of the government’s medical unit, and worked as a physician to both the White House and president.

“I am delighted to be welcoming such a prominent and well respected expert in the field of tobacco harm reduction to our board,” said BAT president Richard Burrows.

“This appointment further demonstrates our commitment to putting science at the heart of our business and I am excited about the role Richard will play in the development of our strategy.”

Earlier this month BAT’s former business development, Naresh Sethi, stepped into the role of regional director for Western Europe. He replaced Mark Cobben, who stepped down in December to “pursue other interests outside BAT”.