Richard Casofsky, who has held senior public affairs positions at L’Oreal, Heineken, Sainsbury’s and McDonald’s, has been appointed director of public affairs at the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA).

Casofsky took up the role on the 1st of July, succeeding Richard Lindsay, who retired from his position as the trade body’s legal and public affairs director.

Casofsky said: “I’m delighted to be joining the IPA at such an important time for the agency sector. The UK’s agencies are a world-class creative and commercial success story, helping businesses, brands and organisations grow, innovate and connect with audiences.”

He added: “Having spent more than two decades representing major consumer brands, I’ve seen first-hand the value that agencies create for businesses, brands and the wider economy.”

Casofsky said he looked forward to “working with members, colleagues and stakeholders to help strengthen engagement with government, support the industry in navigating shared opportunities and challenges, and ensure the sector’s voice is heard on the issues that matter most”.

He has worked as an independent public affairs and policy adviser since leaving his role as director of public affairs at L’Oréal UK and Ireland last year. Before joining the cosmetics company, Casofsky was head of public affairs and responsibility at Heineken UK. His previous positions also include …