Scotch Whisky Association Appoints New Chief Executive
David Frost CMG (pictured), director for Europe, Trade and International Affairs at the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the UK Government department focusing on economic growth and trade policy, will take over as chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association from Gavin Hewitt when he steps down as planned at the end of 2013.
In his role in BIS, Mr Frost 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.
Gavin Hewitt joined the SWA in October 2003 and has overseen a time of global growth and increased investment for the Scotch whisky industry.
Gavin Hewitt says: “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.”
Gavin Hewitt will remain with the SWA until the end of the year. David Frost will join the SWA from 2 January 2014.
