The Scotch Whisky Association has appointed Ian Duddy as its new International Director, tasking him with improving market access and strengthening relationships in Scotch whisky’s key export territories.
Duddy brings more than 25 years of senior government experience, including an extensive career in the Foreign Office. He served as British Ambassador to Uruguay from 2016 to 2020 and as Interim Ambassador to Chile from 2020 to 2021, with earlier postings to Argentina, Afghanistan, and the UK Mission to the United Nations in Geneva. He joins the SWA from the role of Chief Executive to the Scottish Covid-19 Inquiry.
His diplomatic work has spanned trade policy, EU and UN negotiations, intellectual property, and market access, areas that will be directly relevant as the Scotch industry manages the impact of US tariffs while pursuing growth in markets including China and India.
Duddy said, “Scotch Whisky is an iconic product, with a heritage that’s loved and respected across the globe. Over the course of my career, I have seen its global reach, and the complexities businesses face when navigating international markets.
“I’m delighted to be joining the Scotch Whisky Association as International Director. 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.”
Mark Kent, SWA Chief Executive, said, “We’re very pleased to welcome Ian to the Scotch Whisky Association at a crucial time for our industry. 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.”
The appointment comes at a pressured moment for Scotch exports. The SWA has been vocal about the damage caused by US tariffs, while continuing to push for improved access in growth markets across Asia.
