A former head of public affairs for Tesco is to run the external relations arm of the Jewish Leadership Council.

Bernard Hughes, who is also a former head of public affairs at American retail giants Walmart, has been recruited by the JLC to be its first director of external affairs on a reputed six-figure salary .

The JLC said their new executive brought “ a wealth of expertise to the role that crosses over multiple sectors, with an established and strong network in Whitehall”.

JLC chairman Sir Mick Davis said that “some time ago I set out certain measures that the JLC and its members will undertake to help the Jewish community of Great Britain to be effective advocates for Israel and a just settlement with the Palestinian people.

“One of these actions was to build a capacity for public policy and interaction with the mainstream population of this country and facilitate the work of activists in both London and the regions.”

JLC chief executive Simon Johnson said that Mr Hughes – who is currently director of communications for Green Deal Finance Company – said that he was “ delighted that Bernard has agreed to join us and help us to implement our new strategy. He will add considerable value to the community and his experience will help us with our objectives to protect the interests of British Jews today and ensure the vibrancy of the British Jewish community in the future.”

Mr Hughes said he was “deeply honoured to begin working with a community that I believe so strongly in and have continuously supported.”

Board Chief Executive Gillian Merron said: “We would like to congratulate Bernard on his appointment. We wish him well and look forward to working with him.”