The Food and Drink Federation’s communications director, Terry Jones, has been appointed director general of the Provision Trade Federation.

He replaces Clare Cheney, who is retiring after 19 years in the post.

Jones will take up his new role on 1 September, having been the FDF’s communications director since January 2011.

“After over three years at FDF, working with a wide range of manufacturers, I am looking forward to working closely with importers and exporters of provisions as well as UK processors and retailers to promote the interests of the sector,” he said.

PTF chairman Andy Smith welcomed Jones to his new role and thanked Cheney for her outstanding contribution over the past two decades.

“Finding a replacement for Clare, who has represented the provision trade with such enthusiasm and commitment over the last 19 years, was never going to be easy,” he said.

“But I am confident that in Terry we have found a replacement who can carry on the traditions of the PTF and will take the organisation ­forward for the good of its membership.”

Cheney said she was sad to be leaving the PTF but added she was “delighted that Terry will take it forward, bringing his own skills and experiences of the agriculture and food industry.”

Prior to his tenure at the FDF, Jones worked for the National Farmers Union for nine years, most recently as corporate affairs director.

The FDF has yet to announce a replacement for Jones.