Scotch Whisky Association appoints new chief executive

David Frost who is currently director for Europe, Trade and International Affairs at the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) will take over from Gavin Hewitt on  2 January 2014.

In his role in BISFrost has been the senior official responsible for the UK’s trade policy, working closely with the EU Commission, other major trading countries, and a wide range of commercial and trade bodies. He is a diplomat by profession, and has been HM Ambassador to Denmark (2006 to 2008) and a director for both Strategy and the EU in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. 

Frost said: “My career to date working in economic, trade, and EU affairs in the UK and overseas has given me a wealth of experience of global commercial issues which will stand me in good stead in my new role in the Scotch Whisky industry. I am excited about taking up this new position at the helm of this highly-respected trade body which provides an invaluable service to the industry.  I am also very much looking forward to living and working in Edinburgh.”

Hewitt joined the SWA in October 2003 and has overseen a time of global growth and increased investment for the Scotch Whisky industry.

Hewitt said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my ten years as chief executive of the SWA. The industry has expanded to meet surging global demand, with exports almost doubling in the last ten years and unprecedented levels of new investment. Scotch Whisky is vital to the UK and Scottish economies.

"David Frost’s experience of working closely on economic affairs in the UK and overseas fits him well for the role of SWA chief executive.”