Former government, CBI and KPMG political adviser Andy Bagnall has been appointed as the new director general of the British Soft Drinks Association.
Bagnall takes over from BSDA veteran Gavin Partington, who has been in the role since 2012.
His arrival comes with the soft drinks sector facing major challenges, including the extension of the soft drinks sugar levy and the plans for the launch of the UK’s deposit return scheme system in 2027.
The BSDA represents the likes of Carlsberg Britvic, Coca-Cola Great Britain, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I and many other soft drinks manufacturers and marketers across the UK.
Bagnall has previously worked as a special adviser in the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Defence, as well as in Australian politics.
He is also a former director of campaigns at the CBI and Director of External Affairs at KPMG, joining the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) in September 2018 as director of strategy & communications.
Bagnall said: “I’m delighted to be joining the British Soft Drinks Association at such an important time for the sector. The association plays a vital role in representing its members and I look forward to working closely with them to ensure their voices are heard and their interests effectively championed.
“Chief among the priorities for the sector is helping to deliver a deposit return scheme that is fit for purpose and up and running by October 2027, a major step towards a more circular economy.”
Partington added: “It’s been a privilege to lead the association over the last 13 years and work alongside such a committed board, team and membership. I’m proud of what we have achieved together and am confident that the BSDA is well placed for the future.”
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