David Frost appointed whisky association chief executive

Mr Frost said he was "excited" about his new role in the whisky industry

A senior civil servant and former ambassador has been appointed to lead the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).

David Frost will step down as director for Europe, Trade and International Affairs at the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills to become chief executive of the industry body.

He has been the senior official responsible for the UK's trade policy, working closely with the EU Commission.

He will take over from Gavin Hewitt when he steps down at the end of 2013.

Mr Frost was Ambassador to Denmark between 2006 to 2008 and has been a director for both strategy and the EU in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

He said: "My career to date working in economic, trade, and EU affairs in the UK and overseas has given me a wealth of experience of global commercial issues which will stand me in good stead in my new role in the Scotch whisky industry.

"I am excited about taking up this new position at the helm of this highly-respected trade body which provides an invaluable service to the industry.

"I am also very much looking forward to living and working in Edinburgh."

Gavin Hewitt joined the SWA in October 2003 and has overseen a time of global growth and increased investment for the Scotch whisky industry.

'Surging demand'

Mr Hewitt said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my 10 years as chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association.

"The industry has expanded to meet surging global demand, with exports almost doubling in the last 10 years and unprecedented levels of new investment.

"Scotch whisky is vital to the UK and Scottish economies.

"David Frost's experience of working closely on economic affairs in the UK and overseas fits him well for the role of SWA chief executive."