New legal head for Scotch Whisky Association

The Scotch Whisky Association has appointed Alan Park as its new Director of Legal Affairs, leading the team that safeguards the protection of Scotch whisky’s GI status around the world.

Alan Park, who has worked for the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) for the past 13 years, will take over from Magnus Cormack as director of legal affairs at the end of April.  Cormack leaves the position after 33 years working for the SWA.

In his new role, Park will be responsible for ensuring the legal protection of Scotch Whisky’s status as a geographical indication (GI). The GI status means that to be called Scotch Whisky, it must be produced in Scotland in accordance with UK law from water, cereals and yeast and matured for at least three years.

The SWA says that GI status is of great commercial value to the Scotch Whisky industry and gives consumers confidence in the quality and provenance of what they are buying. One of the main responsibilities of the SWA is to protect Scotch Whisky from unfair competition.

Alan Park said: “I have always been passionate about working for such a fantastic industry and it will be a privilege to lead the legal affairs team as we ensure Scotch retains its status as a world-leading spirit drink of the highest quality.”

In his current role as senior legal counsel for the SWA, Park has been responsible for the Association’s legal work in a number of jurisdictions across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Latin America including Germany, Turkey, Thailand, Australia, Nigeria and Mexico.

David Frost, Scotch Whisky Association chief executive, commented: “I’m delighted that Alan Park has agreed to step up to the position of director of legal affairs. I’m sure he’ll continue the excellent work of Magnus in safeguarding Scotch Whisky around the world.”