The Proprietary Association of Great Britain has appointed Katharine Mason as its new director of regulatory and legal affairs.

Ms Mason joins PAGB from the Committee of Advertising Practice where she worked closely with the Advertising Standards Authority. She is an expert in advertising and regulation and a qualified lawyer. 

Helen Darracott, PAGB deputy chief executive, will leave the association at the end of the year. Chief executive John Smith said: “Helen Darracott has played a key role at PAGB since 2003 and is responsible for a number of significant improvements in regulation and reclassification that have been achieved over recent years. Helen will be missed by PAGB staff, members and colleagues from across the industry and we wish her all the very best for her future.” 

Pat Smallcombe, ‎area managing director Northern Europe at Johnson & Johnson, has been elected as the association’s new president. Mr Smallcombe has been a PAGB vice president since 2014.

Steve Troote, senior vice president Northern Europe and Australia/New Zealand at RB was re-elected vice chair, while  David Barnett, area general manager Northern Europe, GSK Consumer Healthcare was also elected vice chair.