Scotch Whisky Association appoints new industry director

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has announced the appointment of Dagmar Droogsma as director of industry.

Ms Droogsma, who most recently has been head of DEFRA’s unit responsible for EU Strategy and Negotiations, has held several senior roles in the Civil Service, including at the Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and at the Department for Energy and Climate Change.

Based out of the SWA’s London office, the trade body said she will use her vast experience to oversee the SWA’s work on operational issues, alcohol policy, taxation and the industrial strategy.

Dagmar Droogsma said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have joined the SWA. I’m excited about using my experience and skills to drive the sustainable growth of the whisky sector through and beyond Brexit.

Welcoming the appointment, SWA Chief Executive Karen Betts said: “I’m delighted that Dagmar is joining the SWA team. She will bring a wealth of experience from her previous roles, both inside and outside government.

She will strengthen the Association’s expertise at a busy time, as the industry works to ensure that Scotland’s national drink continues to thrive.”

The Scotch Whisky industry is the UK’s largest food and drink export, with exports valued at £4.37 billion in 2017.