FSA appoints dairy boss as Chief Exec
UK - Former Chief Executive of the UK's leading dairy firm Arla Foods Tim Smith, has been appointed Chief Executive at the Food Standards Agency.
20 November 2007
3 minute read
Mr Smith has a scientific background and a long career in the food business. From 1979 to 1994 he was at Northern Foods and became a Divisional Director. He then moved to become president of UK operations for the Sara Lee Corporation before joining Express Dairies as Executive Director. At Express he successfully transformed the business’s profitability and played a strategic role in its merger with Arla Foods in October 2003.
Commenting on his appointment FSA Chair Dame Deirdre Hutton said Mr Smith would be a tremendous asset to the Agency.
"He has close links to both the retail and agricultural sectors and a great track record in running a major UK food business. We work closely with consumers, the scientific community and the food industry and having Tim as our Chief Executive will help reinforce these ties. His food industry background complements the background and experience already embedded in the senior leadership team," she added.
Mr Smith's understanding of the issues, challenges and opportunities currently faced by the FSA is also seen as a much needed confidence boost. It says his leadership will help form a clear and strategic direction.
"Now, more than ever, food is an issue of national importance and there is no doubt we have tough challenges ahead of us, especially in the fight against obesity. I am very much looking forward to starting my new role," said Mr Smith.
He will take up his new post in March 2008, replacing John Harwood who has been FSA Chief Executive since 2006.
Commenting on his appointment FSA Chair Dame Deirdre Hutton said Mr Smith would be a tremendous asset to the Agency.
"He has close links to both the retail and agricultural sectors and a great track record in running a major UK food business. We work closely with consumers, the scientific community and the food industry and having Tim as our Chief Executive will help reinforce these ties. His food industry background complements the background and experience already embedded in the senior leadership team," she added.
Mr Smith's understanding of the issues, challenges and opportunities currently faced by the FSA is also seen as a much needed confidence boost. It says his leadership will help form a clear and strategic direction.
"Now, more than ever, food is an issue of national importance and there is no doubt we have tough challenges ahead of us, especially in the fight against obesity. I am very much looking forward to starting my new role," said Mr Smith.
He will take up his new post in March 2008, replacing John Harwood who has been FSA Chief Executive since 2006.
