Scotch Whisky Association appoints Ian Duddy as international director
The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has hired Ian Duddy as its new international director who is set to bring more than 25 years of experience in senior government roles, including the Foreign Office and Scottish Government, to the organisation.
Most recently, Duddy was also chief executive to the Scottish Covid-19 inquiry and, in his new position, he will lead the association’s international engagement, supporting the global growth of Scotch by improving market access and strengthening relationships around the world.
A global career
With an extensive career in the Foreign Office, Duddy has worked overseas with postings to Argentina, Afghanistan and the UK Mission to the United Nations in Geneva. He was British ambassador to Uruguay from 2016 to 2020 and interim ambassador to Chile from 2020 to 2021.
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During his career, which included a secondment to the UK Intellectual Property Office, Duddy has additionally supported UK businesses by tackling barriers to trade and promoting effective regulation. His diplomatic work centred on trade policy, EU and UN negotiations, national security, human rights and the rule of law.
Unlocking new opportunities
Speaking about his appointment, Duddy said: “I look forward to working with colleagues in the SWA team and with partners, governments and stakeholders around the world to support the industry’s continued growth across more than 160 markets, and to unlocking new opportunities for the future.”
Commenting on Duddy’s appointment, SWA chief executive Mark Kent added: “Ian’s expertise in diplomacy, foreign affairs and trade policy will be invaluable as the Scotch whisky sector navigates an increasingly volatile global environment, with producers also facing additional cost pressures at home. Ian brings a strong track record of championing UK interests overseas, and his leadership will strengthen our voice on the global stage as we work to achieve our shared aim of a sustainable and thriving Scotch whisky industry.”
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