Ms Betts has led SWA since 2017 and previously she had a two decade career in the foreign office and diplomatic service.
Announcing the appointment FDF President Jon Woods, said: “Karen Betts has an outstanding track record of achievement representing both our country, and one of our most important and valuable industries. This is a time of unprecedented change and opportunity for the food and drink industry.
“As we emerge from the challenges of Brexit and Covid-19, Karen will bring great understanding of, and experience in, working closely with Governments and some of the world’s biggest consumer goods companies.
“She has spent the last four years speaking for an industry with deep provenance and a range of businesses of all sizes determined that they, too, should be heard.”
The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is the leading representative organisation in the food and drink manufacturing industry.
Betts added: “These are rapidly changing times, with challenges and opportunities for the industry to grasp in everything from addressing climate change, to skills and livelihoods, and healthy diets.
“I am looking forward to working with the FDF's members, the FDF team, with government and other organisations as we find the best answers to these questions for all involved.”