Portland appoints new account director for healthcare team

Portland has announced the appointment of Jamie Hewitt to its health team, where he will take up the role of account director.

Mr Hewitt joins the agency from the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, where he served as head of government affairs, leading the charity's policy and public affairs functions, reports Gorkana.

He has experience of running UK campaigns to increase access to medicines, raise disease awareness and influence legislation on health, social care and welfare reform.

Mr Hewitt will work with current health sector clients, including Sanofi, Alexion and Care UK, and will be tasked with helping the agency to grow its current health portfolio.

Dr Jane Brearley, head of Portland Health, said: "I'm very excited to be joining the Portland team, where I am being given the opportunity to work on some of the most high-profile and dynamic brands in healthcare."

Portland promoted Dr Brearley to sole leadership of its health practice this week, coinciding with the departure of former practice joint lead Louise Fish.