Craig is a Food Technologist with over 30 years of experience in the food industry. Most of his professional experience has been in leading applied research, contract services and training whilst working for membership based science & technology consultancy (Campden BRI). Craig has a broad knowledge of food technology, as well as extensive industrial and academic connectivity. He is passionate about food science and technology and how they can play a positive role in society. His wide ranging technical interests include food preservation, cell cultivated products, alternative proteins, novel processing technologies and Industry 4.0.
Craig has many hobbies and interests including chess, bread baking and playing a range of musical instruments - to varying standards!
Stephen is responsible for leading IFST policy development and engagement on scientific and technical issues, and policy relevant to IFST mission in education, skills and professional recognition. In addition, he supports the External Affairs Advisory Committee and Consultations Group. In this role, Stephen engages with key government departments from the UK nations, key opinion leader academics, and food sector industry leaders to support the IFST mission.
Since graduating from University of Sheffield with a BSc. (Hons) in Physiology and a Ph.D. in Gastrointestinal Physiology and Nutrition, Stephen had an academic career in research and teaching prior to joining Mars Inc. During his time with Mars Inc., Stephen worked in a variety of research and Scientific and Regulatory Affairs roles for the organisation in European and Global roles, and in Confectionery, Food, and Petfood sectors of the business.
Outside of work, Stephen is a Governor at a leading independent day school and a volunteer at a local community garden. Stephen enjoys running, cycling and is a keen gardener.
Natasha’s principal focus is on scientific activities and affairs, contributing to the communication of our scientific voice. She is responsible for writing new scientific materials for our members and other interested parties as well as in response to specific external enquiries.
In addition, Natasha supports the Scientific Committee, coordinates the relationship with our Special Interest Groups and acts as an external scientific representative for collaborations with other relevant organisations.
Since graduating from University of Reading with a BSc (Hons) in Food Technology, Natasha has taught Food Science in China and worked in product development, quality, project management, factory technical and regulatory roles in the food industry. As an IFST Fellow herself, she is fully aware of the importance of supporting and uniting food professionals for the advancement of the sector.
Natasha enjoys travel, cooking and yoga.
Delia is responsible for managing, retaining and developing our existing corporate partners. She delivers an excellent level of customer service and longevity of partnerships. Additionally, Delia develops creative and compelling propositions to pitch and present to our existing corporate supporters and works closely with the Chief Executive to ensure integrated planning and identification of partnership collaboration opportunities.
She actively manages approaches to food-industry employers to promote and progress our group membership scheme, CPD and professional registration schemes.
Delia appreciates the relationship management side of her job and enjoys building strong relationships with members, stakeholders, suppliers and corporate partners by fully understanding their professional needs, strategies and objectives.
She has worked in HR, finance and business analysis and has a master’s degree in marketing. She is a Chartered Marketer and holds a voluntary position as the Vice-Chair Events of the Food, Drink and Agriculture SIG at the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
Delia is a book lover and enjoys dancing, and travelling.
As IFST's Senior HR and Operations Manager, Hayley oversees all aspects of human resources and operational management within the Institute. This varied role includes HR strategy and recruitment, business operations including overseeing internal IT systems, payroll and finance, and ensuring legal compliance with Charity Commission and Government guidelines. Hayley is also a member of IFST's Nominations Committee and works closely with the Board of Trustees and the Remuneration and Benefits Committee on Governance operations and compliance. She is passionate about EDI initiatives, improving opportunities for social mobility, and ensuring that IFST is a diverse and inclusive Institute for all.
Hayley has a wealth of previous experience in the Public Sector, including the NHS, Local Government, Environmental Health and Trading Standards. In her spare time, Hayley loves gigs, festivals, the theatre, reading high fantasy novels and spending too much money on old vinyl records.
Robert has a background in sustainability and science communications, and has previously worked for the UN Relief Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, the University of Oxford, and as a science communications specialist, focussing on communicating climate science and sustainability. His work is often directed towards making science more accessible to the public; in 2022 he delivered a Climate Science and Communications workshop to thousands of young people across the UK, speaking at music festivals and online. Robert also regularly appears on panels and on social media platforms to speak on sustainability and science communication.
Robert previously studied for an MSc in Environmental Change and Management at the University of Oxford’s Environmental Change Institute, where his research covered food system resilience in Puerto Rico, with a focus on vertical farming. Robert also holds a bachelor's degree from the Paris Institute of Political Studies (Sciences Po).
Robin manages the institute's range of education and careers related activities. He is working to develop relationships with university contacts and is responsible for the new IFST apprenticeship platform. He coordinates the promotion of the Institute’s range of competitions and awards. He produces digital media to promote careers in Food Science and Technology for school-aged young people and university students including videography, photography, graphics, fact sheets and printed materials. He also manages the IFST webinar program helping to deliver IFST's scientific content.
Robin has an undergraduate degree in Food Science from the University of Nottingham and worked for PepsiCo during an industrial placement year. He achieved a Master’s degree in research with a project for McCain Foods. Since graduating he worked as a researcher for Channel 4’s ‘Food Unwrapped’ documentary responsible for creating topical ideas to communicate facts about the food industry and dispel myths. He has worked as IFST's Digital Marketing and Communications officer responsible for all of of IFST social media, website and email communications.
Robin enjoys travel, hockey, canoeing, illustration and photography.
As Membership and Registration Manager, Jack coordinates and actively manages the flow of applications for IFST’s wide range of membership and other registration assessment processes.
Jack previously worked at Campden BRI as a Microbiology Project Manager, focusing on next-generation sequencing platforms to sequence microbial populations across various food matrices. He also regularly attended member-based events for training, networking, and supporting clients with their needs. During his time there, he presented numerous research updates to clients and members, and presented research to larger platforms such as the IAFP European Symposium.
Jack holds a BSc in Medical Microbiology from the University of Bristol and an MRes in Bioscience from Cardiff University.
In his spare time, he enjoys live music, rugby, traveling, and hiking, having recently completed the Cotswold Way.
Sue has 30 years' experience working in finance, she has a Diploma Level 3 in Computerised Accounting and AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting.
In her spare time Sue enjoys walking her dog, gardening, listening to music and spending as much time as she can with her family, grandchildren, and socialising with friends.
Anjna is responsible for administering, coordinating and promoting all IFST events as well as updating information on the IFST website. She will also be supporting the Senior Corporate Relationships Manager and other colleagues.
After completing an undergraduate degree in Business and Marketing Management she enjoyed a career in the events industry which included corporate team-building and event coordination. She then developed her love of food into a baking business and running cookery classes for children. Anjna then went on to pursue a PGCE in Food Preparation and Nutrition and spent the last eight years teaching in secondary schools.
In her spare time she experiments with recipes and enjoys hiking, reading and travelling.
Crystal is IFST’s, Registration and Accreditation Officer coordinating the Institute’s activities relating to registration. She also supports accreditation processes and provides an administrative and advisory function to members, external stakeholders and governing bodies.
Crystal has experience working for local authorities, the NHS and charities, and has an undergraduate degree in International Politics and Sociology from London South Bank University.
Crystal is passionate about building better connected communities, co-production and utilising data insights to better understand the needs of members and stakeholders. As a Community Connector, Crystal facilitated networks of peer support and the creation of co-authored resources for autistic adults and young people.
In her spare time, Crystal enjoys digital illustration, creative writing, cooking and developing co-authored research and resources to support the autistic community.
Edison has a background in biological and medicinal chemistry and science communication, with hands-on experience in atmospheric research, social media management, and strategic content creation for science and sustainability initiatives. He has worked with Cambridge Zero as a Student Communication and Branding Project Assistant, where he managed social media channels, developed a year-long content plan, and collaborated on projects aimed at raising climate awareness among university students. Edison is dedicated to creating clear and unbiased science content, enabling audiences to make informed decisions based on evidence and personal experience.
Edison completed his undergraduate degree in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Exeter, where his research focused on aerosol dynamics during the 2019-2020 Australian bushfires, utilising Google Earth Engine for data analysis. His academic background includes modules in atmospheric chemistry, decolonising medicine and science communication, providing him with a strong foundation in both scientific inquiry and effective public engagement. Passionate about environmental science and health, Edison strives to bridge the gap between research and public understanding, empowering audiences with accessible, balanced information.
Outside of work, Edison enjoys music, photography, and exploring nature.
Nicholas is responsible for providing a range of core business administrative support for IFST’s activities, specifically relating to HR, Governance, Operations and Education.
After achieving a Level 3 apprenticeship in Business Administration, he worked within the administrative sector for over 4 years, gaining specific experience in HR, Recruitment and most recently within the NHS.
Outside of work, Nicholas enjoys going for scenic walks, travelling, attending football games and socialising with friends and family.
Nicholas Alifa is a PhD Researcher in Food Science at the University of Reading, UK, with over a decade of experience translating food system data into actionable insights for industries, policymakers, and consumers. As the Scientific Assistant Intern at IFST, he works with the Scientific Committee and experts to develop resources that provide food and drink professionals with trusted information to enhance decision-making.
Previously, Nicholas led the information and communication strategy for the UKRI-funded S3 project at the University of Lincoln, supporting the development of decarbonization narratives in food manufacturing. He brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic communication to his work, advancing sustainability and innovation in the food sector.
Outside of work, he enjoys building applications, photography and experimenting with new technologies.