Emma McClarkin was appointed Chief Executive of the Scottish Beer & Pub Association in 2019.

In her role she leads the organisation as it champions the issues that matter to the beer and pub industry. These are causes members of the SBPA are passionate about; ranging from promoting beer as the nation’s drink of choice, to campaigning against increases to beer duty and business rates that are so damaging to community pubs.

Prior to joining the SBPA, Emma served as a Member of the European Parliament for the East Midlands for 10 years. A true beer lover, during this time she also served as Vice President of the European Parliament Beer Club as well. In addition to this, she has also held posts including Chairman of the Commonwealth Forum and Director of Global Policy for the Sports Integrity Global Alliance. She is currently a Special Advisory Board Member at the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and a Director of the Ivors Academy.

A political communications expert, Emma has a wealth of experience influencing regulatory frameworks, setting strategy and communicating messages on a UK, EU and International level. In addition, she is a known Trade specialist and negotiator.

Outside of work, Emma is a big fan of music and sport, closely following the rugby, football and cricket – as well as watching them in her local pub!