The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has announced the appointment of Tim Rycroft to the role of chief operating officer (COO).

Rycroft joined FDF in September 2015 as director of corporate affairs.

In this new role, Rycroft will provide direct support to FDF chief executive Ian Wright CBE.

He will lead FDF on strategy and industry affairs.

He will also retain oversight of the corporate affairs function and continue to be a lead spokesperson for the federation across a range of issues including Brexit, diet and obesity and industry affairs.

The new role takes effect immediately.

FDF chief executive Ian Wright CBE said: “Over the last three years, Rycroft has made a huge contribution to the reputation of FDF and our impact in the public arena.

“He is trusted by members, by FDF staff and by our external stakeholders. He is also a widely respected commentator on the food and drink industry.

“Right now the FDF is representing the industry across a very significant waterfront. Our ability to deliver across this very wide range of issues will determine our success for our members.”

Rycroft said: “At a time when food and drink faces such a wide range of challenges, I’m very excited at the prospect of playing a bigger role in shaping FDF’s strategy and external reputation.”