The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), has today announced the
appointment of Mark Kent, as its new Chief Executive.
Mark joins the SWA following more than three decades with
the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Most recently, he served as
Ambassador to Argentina from 2016 to June 2021.
New SWA Chief Executive: Mark Kent
Mark also served as the Ambassador to Thailand, Ambassador to Vietnam, as well as roles at British Embassies in Mexico City, Brasilia and the UK Representation to the European Union.
Commenting on the news, Mark, said: “I am delighted to have
been appointed as CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association. As a former Ambassador,
I know in what high regard the Scotch Whisky industry and the SWA is held worldwide.
After a challenging period, I’m looking forward to helping the industry to unleash
its full potential and enable people across the globe to discover and enjoy our
premium and iconic product. The Scotch Whisky industry has a fantastic history,
great stories to tell and continues to innovate. I can’t wait to get started.”
Mark, who will take up the position in January 2022, will
take over from Karen Betts, who leaves the SWA in December 2021, to take over
as Chief Executive at the Food and Drink Federation.
Posted by Steve Rush