David Sweetman Set to Leave Diageo to Become Scottish Hockey CEO

David Sweetman has been named the new Chief Executive officer of Scottish Hockey.

Sweetman, 32, will join the organisation in January 2014 from Diageo, who employed him as a Graduate Trainee in 2005. He has since progressed rapidly within the company’s business functions to his current role of Business Leader.

He is also currently a International Hockey Federation (FIH) Grade One umpire and part of the FIH’s ‘Road to Rio’ Olympic umpire programme. He recently took charge of the Youth Olympics Hockey Final in Singapore.

Commenting on his appointment, Sweetman said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Hockey at such an important and exciting time for the sport.

“I have been part of the hockey community in Scotland for many years as a player, coach, umpire and North District President. I am very much looking forward to the challenge of leading the organisation from 2014, when we will have the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and beyond.”

Scott Baird, Chair of Scottish Hockey, added: “On behalf of the board and staff, I am delighted to welcome David to the Scottish Hockey family as the new CEO.

“We are excited about this appointment and we look forward to him leading the organisation from 2014. This is a fantastic time to be involved in hockey with Glasgow 2014 on the horizon and ensuring as an organisation we are fit for purpose and developing the sport beyond 2014.  We are sure David will bring great value, business skills and acumen to the role.

“His knowledge and experience of hockey at a national, European and World level will also be great assets to utilise.”