The Scotch Whisky Association is governed by a Council of 12 to 16 members, elected at its Annual General Meeting. The Council appoints a number of committees to assist it and to advise it on different aspects of its work.

The Council of the Association sets the strategic direction and agrees the overall policy of the SWA. By drawing its members from chief executives and other senior figures in companies of all sizes, the Council reflects the interests of all members. It meets four times a year.

The Council of the Association

Ian Curle, Edrington (Chairman)

Pierre Pringuet, Chivas Brothers Ltd (Vice Chairman)

Graham Stevenson, Inver House Distillers Ltd (Treasurer)

Stuart Lowthian, John Dewar and Sons Ltd & Bacardi

David Cutter, Diageo plc

Bill Farrar, Edrington

David Gates, Diageo plc

Donard Gaynor, Beam Inc

Peter Gordon, William Grant & Sons Ltd

Paul Neep, The Glenmorangie Company Ltd

Christian Porta, Chivas Brothers Ltd

Fraser Thornton, Burn Stewart Distillers

Paul Walsh, Diageo plc

Leonard Russell, Ian MacLeod Distillers Ltd