Scotch Whisky Association welcomes new International Director

The Scotch Whisky Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian McKendrick to the role of International Director for the SWA.

Ian McKendrick joins the SWA from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), where he has held a variety of posts in London and overseas. Most recently he was lead negotiator for international agreements in the Middle East and North Africa. He was also spent four years in the Directorate General for Trade, European Commission, as a Seconded National Expert on China.

Ian McKendrick, International Director

As International Director, McKendrick will lead the SWA team which focuses on the growth of Scotch Whisky’s global exports and on improving market access for member companies, including customs requirements, definitions of whisky, taxation of Scotch and labelling requirements. Scotch Whisky exports continue to grow.  In 2018 they rose 7.9% to £4.71 billion, or 1.28 billion bottles. Scotch accounts for 21% of all UK food and drink exports. SWA Chief Executive Karen Betts said: “I’m delighted that Ian is joining our team.  He is very experienced in global trade issues and in working in overseas markets, and he will add real value to the work of the SWA and our member companies at a time of some change in how Scotch Whisky is exported as the UK leaves the EU.” “Our industry has seen consistent export growth over the last twenty years, which in turn boosts investment and jobs within Scotland and the UK. With his experience, Ian is well placed to help the industry continue that growth, ensuring a competitive trading environment for Scotch Whisky exports.”

I am excited to join the Scotch Whisky Association at such a pivotal time for one of Scotland’s most important industries overseas.

Ian McKendrick said: “I am excited to join the Scotch Whisky Association at such a pivotal time for one of Scotland’s most important industries overseas. I know from my previous experience how respected the SWA and Scotch Whisky is on the world stage.”

“I’m looking forward to helping the team continue to secure fair market access in existing markets and building the industry’s presence in global markets like India, China and Brazil which have huge potential for future growth.”

For more information contact the SWA Press Office on pressoffice@swa.org.uk.

Find out more about the Scotch Whisky Association Leadership team here.