The Asia Pacific International Spirits and Wines Alliance (APISWA) has appointed Ian McKendrick as its new executive director.
McKendrick will lead the Alliance’s engagement with governments, regulators and industry stakeholders across Asia Pacific, working with its 10 member companies to strengthen the sector’s voice, promote evidence-based policy, and support responsible growth.
“I am delighted to be joining APISWA. Asia Pacific is one of the most dynamic and significant regions for the international spirits and wine industry, and the policy environment is evolving rapidly across its markets,” McKendrick said.
“I look forward to working with our members, governments and partners to help shape that environment, from trade and taxation to responsible consumption and the fight against illicit alcohol, in ways that benefit consumers, local communities, and the wider economies in which our members operate.”
McKendrick joins APISWA from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Prior to that, he spent six years at the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), where he was International Director, leading the Association’s work to support the global growth of Scotch Whisky across more than 160 markets.
Before to the SWA, McKendrick spent more than two decades in the FCO including postings at the British Embassy in Beijing and four years in the Directorate-General for Trade at the European Commission as a Seconded National Expert on China.
His broader diplomatic career spanned economic and trade issues, including as lead negotiator for post-Brexit international agreements in the Middle East and North Africa.
“We are very pleased to welcome Ian to APISWA,” said Ludovic Ledru, chairman of APISWA.
“His experience at the SWA and in international trade diplomacy, including in China, makes him well suited to lead the Alliance at a time when the regulatory and policy landscape across Asia Pacific is becoming increasingly complex.
“Ian’s understanding of how governments, industry, and stakeholders can work together will be a real asset as we continue to champion the interests of our members and the responsible enjoyment of spirits and wine across the region.”
