The spirits business International Beverage has created a new role for Sarah Burgess – master of whisky creation.

In the new position, International Beverage said that Burgess will spearhead a team of spirits makers as well as collaborate closely with the company’s global brand advocacy team.

Here, Burgess will share her technical experience and create connections across a portfolio of premium Scotch whisky brands including Old Pulteney, Balblair, Speyburn and anCnoc single malt whiskies, as well as Hankey Bannister blended whisky.

Prior to joining International Beverage, Burgess was the whisky maker at The Lakes Distillery and The Macallan. She has also managed operations at Diageo’s Oban, Glenkinchie and Clynelish distilleries, alongside acting as creative director at The Craigellachie Collection.

Managing director of International Beverage, Malcolm Leask, said: “International Beverage is entering an exciting period of growth and we are delighted to have Sarah at the helm of our Scottish spirits portfolio. Her vast industry experience, passion and creative flair, make her the ideal custodian of our award-winning premium spirits brands.

“As a business we are committed to employing the best people to help drive our business forward and Sarah certainly fits the bill. We are looking forward to seeing her talent shine.”

Burgess added: “I’m thrilled to step into this new role where I’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of International Beverage’s whisky creation. I’m hoping to bring a fresh new perspective along with a steadfast commitment to enduring quality. I’m also looking forward to working closely with International Beverage’s global brand advocacy team, leading training initiatives and bringing our extraordinary spirits to markets around the world.”