A well-known name in the food safety circuit, Crew previously served as vice-president for the Institute and brings 35 years of experience to his new position across roles with retailers, food manufacturers and as a consultant.
As President, Crew will lead the Institute in promoting the advancement and application of food science and technology for the benefit of the public. He will serve a three-year term and will be responsible for representing the IFST at industry events, promoting the organisation’s initiatives and serving as spokesman for the organisation.
Taking the mantle
Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I am honoured to have been elected as the new President of IFST and extend my thanks to [outgoing president] Helen Munday for her successful term.
“I am passionate about the important role IFST can play in promoting the provision of safe, authentic nutritious, delicious food and I’m committed to a diverse membership and would like to play a part in its further development – especially in helping to promote careers and employment for our students in difficult times.”
”IFST has some interesting and exciting times ahead. Not least, we look forward to celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2024 and continuing our journey toward the organisation's possible Chartership status. I hope to continue making people aware of our fantastic membership offer and further drive-up membership numbers, which have doubled in the last decade.”
Departing president
Sterling succeeds Helen Munday as IFST President, who’s term during saw IFST membership grow by 32% from 2,500 to over 3,600 in March 2023.
“It has been an unusual three years as President of IFST, yet despite the pandemic and the issues in the global supply chain, IFST has grown in stature,” said Munday. “We have undergone a strong period of delivery partly through pivoting our ways of working and are proud to have enhanced our relevance to those working in the food profession.”
Meanwhile, drinks giant Diageo has appointed its first female chief executive, following the announcement of current head Sir Ivan Menezes’ retirement in June this year.
