Former diplomat and BIS director David Frost has taken over as the new chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). He replaces Gavin Hewitt, who led the organisation for 10 years.
Frost (pictured) joins the SWA from his role as director for Europe, Trade and International Affairs at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), where he was the senior official responsible for the UK’s trade policy, working closely with the EU Commission, major trading countries, and commercial and trade bodies.
He was previously HM Ambassador to Denmark and has also worked in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as director for strategy and director for the EU.
Frost said he was excited to take the helm of the highly respected trade body and that his experience of global commercial issues would stand him in good stead in the new role.
Outgoing chief exec Hewitt welcomed Frost, saying the Scotch whisky industry was vital to the UK and Scottish economies and had expanded to meet surging global demand. Exports had almost doubled in the last 10 years amid unprecedented levels of new investment, he said.
“Frost’s experience in working closely with departments on economic affairs in the UK and overseas will make him well fitted for the role of SWA chief executive,” he said.
The appointment, which was announced in mid-September, is the first of a number of changes at the trade body. Government and communications director Campbell Evans will step up to the role of director of international affairs, replacing Pete Wilkinson, who has retired after 22 years.
David Williamson, previously SWA deputy director of international affairs, replaces Evans as government and communications director.
