Following careers in the food, pharmaceutical and communications industries, Ailbhe Fallon founded an independent consultancy specialising in strategic advice and advocacy applied to business development and innovation.  As a biochemist with a strong grounding in science and its communication, she regularly leads communications and advocacy programmes for international businesses and brand owners, and plays an active role in many science-led organisations. She served as chairman of the Institute of Food Technologists British Section and has been part the IFST's Communications Committee for

Tom Hollands Innovation and Technical Director Designate at Raynor Foods Ltd, he has worked in both private and public sectors including the Food Standards Agency and GU puddings.  He has over 19 years’ experience in the Food Industry ranging from food service, food manufacturing and government.  Tom has won a number of national and international accolades and sits as Honorary Secretary on the Trustee Board of the Institute. 

Ian has a degree in Microbiology from the University of Dundee, with over 25 years experience in food manufacturing, technical support and commercial roles in the public and private sectors, in large and small organisations. A keen advocate of technology transfer, he has been running Protem Projects for over a year, a consultancy focussed on providing solutions in and around the food supply chain, especially at the University / Industry interface. He is a Fellow of the IFST.

Michael has over thirty-four years’ experience in the food industry and has been the Executive Director of Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) for over 22 years. He previously worked in Northern Ireland and Malta for twelve years working closely with major retailers and was a member of the Board of Ormeau Bakery. 

Maureen Edmondson is a food scientist by training and experience. She studied at Queen’s University of Belfast gaining her doctorate in food bacteriology. She is a Fellow of IFST, a Chartered Scientist and Visiting Professor at Ulster University. Maureen worked 20 years for Mars Incorporated where she was responsible for International Scientific Affairs. Maureen served six years as a Board Member for the Food Standards Agency and Chair of the Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee.