Meet the Team

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!

As IFST's Head of HR and Operations, Hayley leeads on all aspects of human resources, operational management and governance operations 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 vinyl records.

As Head of Membership and Registrations, 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.

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 organises Student Launchpad, the institutes flagship event for students to learn more about graduate careers and meet professionals working in the food sector. He manages IFST's accreditation of degree programmes and organises IFST's student competitions including Ecotrophelia and Future Scientist. He leads IFST’s new outreach programme to inspire young people into a career in food and is responsible for redeveloping the ‘Love Food Love Science’ career platform. He is working to develop stronger relationships with universities and schools building the pipeline for future talent.

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 IFST communications, website and social media.

Robin enjoys travel, hockey, illustration and photography.

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.

Bea Kahsai has over 16 years’ experience in administration and event management, with a strong background in membership support and project delivery. As IFST’s Registration and Membership Officer, she is focused on creating smooth processes and ensuring a positive experience for all members.

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.

Edison has a background in biological and medicinal chemistry and science communication, with hands-on experience in scientific 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 content plans, 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.

Jess is a Scientific Assistant Intern at the IFST. Her background is in Chemistry, with a MChem (Hons) from the University of Bath. She is currently finishing her PhD at the same institution within the Department of Chemical Engineering. Jess’ PhD research has focused on active, degradable food packaging and she has a keen interest in the reduction of food waste and plastic waste via policy interventions and education. Jess has also worked on food waste reduction projects within the Food Research Team at WRAP during a UKRI funded Policy Internship.

Jess enjoys swimming, being in the countryside and travelling with family and friends.