Karen Betts to leave the SWA: statement

Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the Scotch whisky Association since May 2017, is leaving her role to become Chief Executive of the Food and Drink Federation. Chair of the Scotch Whisky Association Scott McCroskie, who is Chief Executive of Edrington, said:

“After more than four years in post, Karen will leave the Association with our heartfelt gratitude.  She has steered the industry successfully through a turbulent period, critically while punitive tariffs were imposed on Scotch Whisky by the United States, through the UK’s departure from the EU, and during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her leadership has helped the industry emerge in a strong and forward-looking position.

“Karen and her team have also positioned the industry to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. Her focus on increasing diversity in our workforce, achieving our net-zero emissions target and growing trade in key global markets will help to secure the industry’s success in years to come.  I am confident that a new Chief Executive will be able to build on this for the benefit of our sector, at home and around the world.

“On behalf of the SWA Council, our member companies and the SWA team, I want to thank Karen for her service to the industry and wish her every success in her new role.  We have begun the process of appointing a new Chief Executive and will make further announcements in due course.”

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