Katie Pettifer appointed as permanent CEO of the UK Food Standards Agency

UK – Katie Pettifer has officially taken up the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Food Standards Agency (FSA), the organization tasked with overseeing food safety in the United Kingdom.

Pettifer had been serving as the interim CEO of the FSA since September 2024 and previously held the position of Director of Strategy from July 2021.

Before joining the FSA, she worked at Ofcom, where she was Director of Public Policy, and has also held senior roles in the Ministry of Justice, the Cabinet Office, and the Northern Ireland Office.

In her statement, Pettifer emphasized the importance of the agency’s role in ensuring consumer trust in food and expressed her commitment to tackling upcoming challenges and opportunities as the FSA marks its 25th anniversary in 2025.

She also highlighted her intention to collaborate with stakeholders and partners across the food sector to maintain the safety and integrity of food in the UK.

Susan Jebb, the chair of the FSA, welcomed Pettifer’s appointment as a permanent CEO, stating that she brings significant experience in government policy and regulatory matters.

Jebb noted that Pettifer’s leadership comes at a pivotal moment with the introduction of the UK’s Plan for Change, which outlines five key missions, including health initiatives and strategies for economic growth.

She also pointed to the ongoing development of a food strategy for England, the rollout of the Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework, and Food Matters: Wales as significant areas requiring FSA’s involvement.

Jebb expressed confidence in Pettifer’s ability to guide the organization through these developments while maintaining trust in the food system.

The FSA, established in 2000, is an independent department tasked with protecting public health and consumer interests related to food safety and hygiene across the UK.

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