Scotch whisky group hires ambassador

A SERVING female British ambassador has been appointed by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) to be its new director of global affairs.

Sarah Dickson. Picture: Contributed

Sarah Dickson, who is leaving her post as HM ambassador to Guatemala and Honduras this summer to take up her new role, will be responsible for the trade body’s international and European Union business.

Dickson, aged 42, who has an MBA, has held a number of roles with the UK diplomatic service in the UK and overseas, including in Spain and in South America.

She said: “I’m looking forward to joining the Scotch Whisky Association, an organisation recognised globally for its work in representing a highly successful Scottish and British industry.”

Dickson added that she would develop the SWA’s “sterling work” in trade policy and build its presence in London. In another appointment, Graeme Littlejohn has been appointed the group’s head of external affairs in London.

He was previously head of office for Danny Alexander, former MP and chief secretary to the Treasury ousted in the recent general election.

David Frost, the SWA’s chief executive, himself a former HM ambassador to Denmark, said: “I’m delighted that Sarah and Graeme are joining the Association. They bring a wealth of experience.”