The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has named Elliot Dunster as its executive director of communications.

Dunster moves from being head of external affairs at the ABPI, to head up the reputation, digital and media functions of the group representing the branded pharmaceutical industry in the UK.

The eight person communications team includes a high-profile media function on behalf of the association and its members; reputation and responsibility for the ABPI’s flagship Disclosure UK transparency database and ABPI Code engagement across global pharmaceutical companies.

He will report directly to the ABPI’s chief executive, Mike Thompson.

Dunster says, “Every day, medicines developed by ABPI members transform the lives of millions of patients in the UK. With a new generation of cutting-edge treatments coming through there has never been a more important time for us to tell this story. I am delighted to have the opportunity to build on the work that the ABPI has led to showcase the extraordinary innovation of our industry."

Dunster has spent three years working at the ABPI, which has included leading on the ABPI’s work to prepare for Brexit. During this period Dunster worked on secondment to the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) – the European trade association for the branded industry.

Prior to joining the ABPI, Dunster worked as the group head of policy, research, public affairs and press at the disability charity, Scope. He also worked in Westminster as a parliamentary advisor to the business and treasury ministerial teams and has a range of experience advising senior leaders on communications and policy issues.

Thompson says, “At a time of unprecedented change for the pharmaceutical industry, Elliot is well versed in the complex role the ABPI has in contributing to the UK life sciences agenda. Our Industry has a great story to tell and Elliot will be central to making sure our voice is heard.”