We're recruiting: International Director

Location: Edinburgh or London, with some international travel 
Salary: £129,132.00 with excellent benefits 
Closing date: Friday 31 October 2025 
First interviews: Week commencing 24th November 2025 (online via Teams) 
Final interviews: Week commencing 1st December 2025 (in person, Edinburgh) 

About Us 

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) is the trade association representing the Scotch Whisky industry, Scotland’s largest food and drink export and one of its most iconic global products. We work with governments, international organisations, and industry stakeholders to secure fair market access, promote responsible regulation, and protect Scotch Whisky worldwide. 

The Role 

We are seeking an exceptional leader to head our International team. Reporting to the Chief Executive, the International Director will shape and deliver SWA’s international agenda, securing trade wins, tackling barriers to growth, and representing Scotch Whisky at the highest political and commercial levels. 

This is a strategic, outward-facing leadership role requiring outstanding judgement, influence, and credibility. 

To learn more about this role, download the full job specification and job application here on our dedicated careers site, Spirited Careers. 

Equal Opportunities 

We strive to foster a workplace which has equal opportunities for all employees.  We want to ensure that each person is included, feels valued and is respected. We welcome you for who you are, your background, how you look, or how you identify. 

How to Apply 

Please submit the following via email to: hr@swa.org.uk 

• Your CV 

• A one page covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and how you meet our person specification, please do so in no more than 500 words. 

Closing date for applications is 12pm on Thursday 6th November. We anticipate a high volume of applications for this position and may close applications early. This won’t be before 12pm Friday 31 October.