Heineken has handed the reins for its UK marketing to Jacco van der Linden.

He is currently marketing director at the group’s Nigerian Breweries subsidiary, a role he has held since 2008.

Van der Linden will take up his new role in January, taking over marketing in the UK for brands including Foster’s, Strongbow and John Smith’s, as well as the group’s flagship lager.

“Jacco is an accomplished leader and a true commercial professional, with experience across sales and marketing, in emerging and mature markets,” said UK managing director Stefan Orlowski.

“He brings with him a wealth of experience in portfolio management and brand development. ”

The news comes after Heineken last week announced a fall in UK beer volumes of 2% despite a strong performance from the Heineken brand.

Read more
Heineken warns of hit to profits (26 October 2011)
Heineken rolls on for next Rugby World Cup (21 October 2011)
Heineken sells off Scottish beer brands (8 October 2011)