The Balvenie, owned by William Grant & Sons, has appointed Gemma Paterson as its new Global Brand Ambassador.
Paterson will take over from Sam Simmons on 1 July 2018 and will represent The Balvenie at key events in the coming months. Simmons has been with the Speyside distillery since 2008, initially as The Balvenie Ambassador USA and subsequently as Global Ambassador, which he was appointed to in 2010.
Paterson was born in the Scottish Highlands and grew up in the Hebridean Isle of Lewis, Scotland. After graduating from the University of Glasgow in 2011, she spent time at The Balvenie distillery, where she gained first-hand experience studying the art and science behind scotch malt whisky production.
During her time at the distillery, Paterson also obtained a General Certificate in Distillation from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling. She is currently working towards her three-year Diploma.
In May 2016, Paterson moved to New York to take up the post of The Balvenie Ambassador, United States East.
Paterson said: “Words can’t express how excited I am to start this next chapter in my career with The Balvenie. I feel so privileged to take up such a prestigious role and be given the opportunity to play a part in the history of this great distillery.
“Sam has provided a wealth of support and guidance to me throughout my time with The Balvenie and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed our recent handover period. We’ve followed a similar path from USA Ambassador to Global Ambassador, so he’s been the perfect mentor for me as I transition into my new role.”
Simmons added: “Having known Gemma for a number of years now, it’s abundantly clear that she has all of the credentials needed to succeed within the role of Global Ambassador. Gemma’s dedication to the distillery and passion for sharing the wonderful world of Scotch whisky will set in her good stead for the future. I hope she invites me to a tasting soon.”
