"With over 30 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, I have built a career specialising in flavour and flavour ingredients across a wide range of market sectors including savoury (food coatings and marinades), snack seasonings, beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), confectionery, and dairy. My extensive background in New Product Development (NPD) has equipped me with a diverse and adaptable skill set, allowing me to thrive in dynamic environments where no two days are the same—whether collaborating on customer projects, creating presentations, exploring emerging trends and keeping up to date with changing food guidelines, providing solutions to customer projects and becoming a trusted advisor.
Seeing a product that I have worked on appear on a supermarket shelf is a moment of pride and fulfilment—knowing I played a part in its journey. My passion for food and drink extends beyond the workplace; I enjoy discovering new product launches, reading food magazines, and indulging in culinary shows like MasterChef and The Great British Bake Off.
A highlight of my career is my role as a judge for the Quality Food Awards for the past four years. This role has allowed me to engage with cutting-edge innovation, evaluate products on taste, texture, and other criteria, and connect with inspiring peers across the industry.
As a woman in food, I’m proud to have raised two children—half of that time as a single mum—while maintaining a fulfilling career. I strive to be a role model to them and am incredibly proud of the young adults they are becoming. Balancing work and family life has helped me develop strong organisational and interpersonal skills that continue to serve me well.
Eating and drinking for a living what more is there to love?"