Punch Taverns, the UK’s largest pub operator, has appointed David Wigham to the role of regional operations director to help champion pubs in the North East and East.

David of Northumberland joined Punch at the start of the New Year from Coors, and takes responsibility for one of Punch’s four core regions, comprising around 1600 pubs spanning from Berwick in the North East down to South Derbyshire.

David was with Coors for nine years where he held a number of senior sales and marketing roles across the on and off trade.

As national account director, David looked after Coors’ Punch and Spirit accounts, and prior to this worked at Barclays Bank where he headed their small business division.

Commenting on his appointment, David said: “I am passionate about ensuring we continue to develop our pub estate and ensuring our pubs continue to play a valuable role in their communities.

He adds: “I have already visited many fantastic pubs in my first few weeks and I have been absolutely delighted with the attitude, commitment and ambitions of the licensees I have met. Clearly there is still scope to help many of our licensees develop their businesses to reach the standards of our best – which is an exhilarating prospect!”

“It is a privilege to have responsibility for pubs which are an important part of our British heritage and which have such a vital role to play in our future. There remains a huge amount of potential for good pubs. Those licensees with a desire for success, a dedication to outstanding customer service and a willingness to work with Punch should continue to thrive. “

David lives in Morpeth, Northumberland with his wife and three boys. 

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