Geneva, Switzerland – August 18, 2026 – Today, the World Spirits Alliance (WSA), the global organisation representing leading spirits companies and producer associations worldwide, announces the appointment of David Williamson as its new Chief Executive Officer. He takes up the role in November 2026.
David will lead the Alliance’s work to strengthen the industry’s voice with international institutions, promote evidence-based policies, and advance the sector’s contribution to communities and economies around the world.
David brings more than 25 years of industry experience in international public affairs, communications, and advocacy. He joins from William Grant & Sons, where he was Corporate Affairs Director. Prior to that, he spent nearly twenty years at the Scotch Whisky Association, including as Public Affairs & Communications Director, playing a key role in representing one of the world’s most internationally traded spirits. David has also served on the boards of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD), spiritsEUROPE, and the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
Commenting on the appointment, the newly appointed Chair of the WSA Board, Darya Galperina (Pernod Ricard) said: “David takes on this role at a vital moment. The foundations of the Alliance are strong, but our sector’s expectations continue to grow. Having worked both within leading spirits companies and industry associations, he brings a unique combination of strategic leadership, advocacy experience, and deep knowledge of the global spirits sector. The Board has full confidence in his ability to build on the Alliance’s achievements and further strengthen our global impact.”
David Williamson said: “It is an honour to lead the World Spirits Alliance, and I am excited to champion our industry’s significant contribution to communities and economies around the world. I look forward to working with all our members to unlock new growth opportunities, encourage the responsible and sustainable enjoyment of our brands, and promote evidence-based trade, tax, and alcohol policies.”
David succeeds Helen Medina, who has led the Alliance since 2024. Under her leadership, the WSA established itself within the international policy community, strengthening its engagement with institutions such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. The Alliance thanks her for that leadership and wishes her every success in what comes next.
About the World Spirits Alliance
The World Spirits Alliance is the global organisation representing leading spirits companies and producer associations from around the world. The Alliance provides a platform for cooperation on international policy issues, promotes responsible enjoyment of spirits, and advocates for evidence-based approaches that support consumers, communities, and economic growth.
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