Alcohol awareness charity Drinkaware has appointed drinks industry consultant, Paul Hegarty, to help develop and manage its relationships and communications with industry investors.
The appointment of Paul Hegarty follows 50 alcohol-related companies including leading producers, pub operators, supermarkets and off-licence companies committing more than £5 million per year for the next three years to support the charity.
Formerly Head of Communication for Molson Coors, Hegarty has worked in the alcoholic drinks sector for over 20 years, specialising in communication, public affairs and corporate responsibility. From January 2010, as Drinkaware’s Industry Relationship Manager, he will support the charity to communicate its activities with funders and encourage them to help spread the responsible drinking message to consumers.
Paul Hegarty, says: “The substantial financial support from the industry for Drinkaware clearly demonstrates that alcohol producers and retailers fully understand that alcohol abuse is hurting their businesses. I will be helping find ways for funding companies to work in partnership with Drinkaware to change Britain’s drinking culture; to help people understand how they can enjoy a drink without hurting themselves or other members of society.”
Drinkaware Chief Executive, Chris Sorek, says: “Our conversations with funders have shown they are keen to explore ways to amplify Drinkaware’s campaigns and Paul’s considerable industry experience will help us engage the drinks industry in our efforts to promote responsible drinking. We are thrilled to have someone of Paul’s calibre and experience on our staff.”
Drinkaware