A graduate of Strathclyde University (BSc and PhD) , I joined the Scotch Whisky industry over 30 years ago and now lead a specialist team of engineers, scientists and technologists in support of Diageo’s production facilities in Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Singapore and Panama.I started as a chemical engineer with Inver House Distillers and moved through a number of engineering, quality and production positions at Inver House, Shell (Emstar) and Diageo before taking up the post of Technical Director Europe. Along the way I was Master Blender for J&B and developed a number of new blends such a J&B Jet and Spey Royal as well as spending many enjoyable hours introducing Scotch Whisky to consumers worldwide through tastings and presentations. . I have specific technical interests in whisky maturation & blending, environmental science, anti-counterfeiting technology and packiaging & materials science.I am a "Master of the Quaich" - the “Keepers of the Quaich” is most prestigious and honoured institution in the international Scotch whisky industry – my work in combating counterfeiting was recognised by the industry in 2004 through an International Wine and Spirits Association award for “Outstanding achievement in Scotch Whisky”