Chief Operating Officer

Scotch Whisky is a much-loved and prestigious spirit with a global reputation.  With a history that stretches back over 500 years, the industry combines a unique heritage with the global reach of an advanced manufacturer as the UK’s No.1 food and drink export. The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) is the trade association that supports the Scotch Whisky industry.  The industry’s vision is to ensure Scotch Whisky continues to be the world’s undisputed premier whisky and consumers’ spirit of choice. The SWA’s mission is to drive the best possible global business environment for Scotch. The SWA focuses on supporting market growth, advancing global sustainability and driving the Covid-19 recovery as its Strategic Priorities.

The SWA is led by its Chief Executive and is made up of five teams, each led by a Director.  Each team plays its part in working to achieve the Strategic Priorities.  The teams are: International; Industry; Strategy and Communications; Legal; and Corporate Services.

The position

SWA is looking for a COO to lead the corporate services strategy and team within SWA.  Reporting to the CEO, you will be responsible for all governance and operational matters, including in finance, facilities management, HR, IT and Health & Safety.  These services underpin the successful delivery of services to members and the achievement of strategic goals and priorities from across the organisation.

The COO will be a proven leader who can set a strong direction for the team, empowering and supporting them in the delivery of strategic objectives, and instilling a high performance culture with an operational excellence focus.

We are looking for candidates with experience of operating and managing a business across the corporate services functions, who can bring fresh thinking to the function and drive adoption of new technologies and processes.  Project management and people development experience are therefore highly desirable as are strong communication skills and financial acumen.

You can download a full candidate brochure here.

To apply, please send your CV to Ailsa Sutherland, Director at FWB Park Brown at fwb@fwbparkbrown.com.  For an initial confidential discussion please contact her on 0131 539 7087.

Equal Opportunities and Applications

The SWA is an equal opportunity employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy.