The Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber has confirmed the appointment of Karen Carlyle as executive director in charge.

Carlyle was previously acting executive director. She joined the group in November 2003, having been a partner for Interact Partnership.

Funded by Yorkshire Forward and Food From Britain, the Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber took over from Yorkshire Pantry in December 2002.

It provides advice and contacts to small regional food and drink companies.

Carlyle has more than 15 years’ experience in senior commercial posts.

Her previous roles have included head of marketing and merchandising for chilled foods at Asda and senior food buyer for Marks and Spencer. She has also been sales and marketing director for Hazlewood Foods’ grocery division.

Carlyle has already been involved in the launch of DeliciouslyYorkshire in March. The brand was created to promote locally sourced food and drink.