Brand Ambassadors

Meet our Brand Ambassadors

Our impressive ensemble of Brand Ambassadors cover all areas of our ultra premium portfolio - from Scotch whisky and American bourbon to mixables and Japanese craft spirits. The team curate exclusive, prestigious experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind. From engaging bartender initiatives to captivating customer activations and industry events, the team have an unwavering dedication to fostering advocacy and loyalty among our customers and partners.

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Jonas Gram, The Macallan

Having gained a reputation for managing and owning some of the most iconic destination bars in Copenhagen Jonas joined The Macallan in 2017 where he has elevated The Macallan experiences across the Nordics using his exceptional depth of consumer experience at the highest level. Most recently Jonas has been the experiential activation lead on our key global brand partnership with Bentley across his region. Well educated within the brand and whisky business with a diploma in Single Malt, Jonas will take you on an insightful journey in the world of The Macallan Single Malt. "Join The Macallan Society to gain priority access to select whisky releases, along with special recommendations and content tailored for you. For any special interests you are welcome to contact Jonas at [email protected]"

BRAND SPECIALIST

George Sklias,The Macallan

George brings over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked in prestigious cocktail bars in Stockholm, including the historical 5-star Grand Hôtel. Through his journey, he developed a deep admiration for Single Malt Whisky and The Macallan’s rich Craftmanship and Heritage. Combining his expertise with the whisky making values, George has the privilege of engaging in inspiring conversations , exploring the finer aspects of luxury and lifestyle through the lens of The Macallan.

GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR

Martin Markvardsen, Highland Park

Martin joined Highland Park back in 2006 and has spent a remarkable 35 years within the industry. His fascination with Scotch whisky was sparked during a trip to Scotland, where he discovered the "golden nectar." From that moment on, there was no turning back for him. Driven by the new interest and desire to know more, Martin took every chance to learn more about Scotch whisky. He has been part of every step in production and warehousing. He has visited every distillery in Scotland and worked on some of them as well. He served as the Whisky Manager at the renowned Craigellachie Hotel's Quaich Bar, holding an impressive collection of over 780 distinct single malts. Martin is also a proud Keeper of the Quaich, an honor bestowed upon those who have shown outstanding commitment to the Scotch whisky industry.

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Maximilian Warner, Highland Park

Max, a seasoned Brand Ambassador, boasts a 30-year legacy marked by gritty swagger and innovative flair in the global spirits world. From the smoky bars of London to the heart of New York and Parisian salons, Max crafts experiences that dance on the palate, creating "wow" moments. His international network weaves a tapestry of connections across continents, orchestrating impactful projects in 80 countries. Bridging old-school charm with avant-garde allure, Max's immersive education sessions are a testament to his excellence. Accolades like the UK's Best Bar Team and International Best Brand Ambassador follow him like the notes of a fine single malt. Max, Brand Ambassador for Highland Park in the Nordics, is not just a toast-raiser; he's a saga-crafter in every sip. Cheers to Max – storyteller, craftsman, Keeper of the Quaich.

GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR

Isac Melander, Naked Malt

Born and raised on the Swedish island Gotland, Isac soon found his way to the bar world. After more than 10 years in the industry at some of both Stockholm and London’s most attractive bars, he started working with Naked Malt in 2016. Isac is now the Global Brand Ambassador for Naked and has twice won the prestigious “improver of the bar industry” in Sweden.

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Joakim Wallén, Beam Suntory Japanese portfolio & Malts

Joakim has extensive experience in the food & beverage industry. He has worked at some of the most eminent bars and restaurants in the in the business, and was latest the bar manager at Farang in Stockholm. Joakim represents Bowmore, Laphroaig, Auchentoshan and our Japanese portfolio. Here, he put a lot of focus on establishing relations and spreading knowledge in the industry as well as reaching consumers by tastings and education workshops.

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Jonathan Östblom-Smedje, Beam Suntory Bourbons

Jonathan found his way to the world of whisky in the late 90’s when we was living and working in London. “- I have been working with and been dedicated to bring the American whisky to the Nordics since 2010. During those first years people were not very eager to try whisky made with corn, but today it is a whole different story and they are more curious than anything.”

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Natasha Bekhradi, Lucas Bols Brands

Natasha has valuable experience from working with premium cocktail bars and is most recently coming from well renowned Lucys Flower shop, one of the top 50 best bars worldwide (2021 & 2022). With her knowledge and expertise, Nastasha works with a clear focus on executional excellence and attention to detail in her role as the brand ambassador for the Lucas Bols Brands, the oldest distilled spirit brand.

Brand Ambassador - Contracted Consultant

Jarkko Nikkanen, Edrington Finland

Jarkko, aptly dubbed 'Mr. Whisky of Finland', he is currently the whisky ambassador in Finland who has authored over 10 whiskey-related books and hosted over 2000 whisky tastings during the past 20 years. As a consultant Jarkko is creating buzz around Finland with both Edrington and Beam Suntory portfolios. Jarkko's personal life evolves around every day luxury, tattoos and his tasting companion, black labrador named Sisu.