Paul Walsh, Chief Executive of Diageo plc, has been appointed Chairman of The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), the industry’s representative body announced today.

Mr Walsh succeeds Richard Burrows (Pernod Ricard) who retires from the SWA after six years on its Council.  Ian Curle, Chief Executive of The Edrington Group, has been appointed as the SWA Vice-Chairman in succession to Mr Walsh.

Speaking on his appointment, Paul Walsh said:

“It is an honour to be invited by my industry colleagues to become Chairman of The Scotch Whisky Association at a time when new opportunities for Scotch Whisky are developing worldwide. 

“Scotch Whisky is one of the country’s leading export industries, with annual shipments of £2.5bn representing a quarter of UK and two thirds of Scottish food and drink exports by value.  I want to build on this success for the benefit of the economy as a whole. 

“The SWA’s continuing priority must be to set a positive agenda in support of all its members, large and small.  In addition to its invaluable legal work protecting the integrity of Scotch Whisky, the Association has an important role to play in tackling the barriers to trade that unfairly hold us back in our export markets.  Equally, leadership in the promotion of responsible attitudes to alcohol consumption and environmental sustainability will continue to be key priorities in the coming year.”