Food safety specialist Food Alert has appointed a new technical director as it strengthens its position as a strategic partner for clients facing potential regulatory changes.

Sioned Hatcher-Evans was previously Head of Safety and Risk at TGI Fridays UK and has also acted as an environmental health practitioner. She brings a wealth of experience in the regulatory field of environmental health and maintaining compliance within food and hospitality organisations.

During her seven-year career, Sioned has led projects to fully digitalise and upgrade safety-related management systems within the hospitality sector to ensure they meet operational demands and that regulatory changes are easily absorbed with minimal disruption.

Commenting on her new role, Sioned said: “I’m passionate about supporting businesses to implement a solid foundation for a positive safety culture, bridging the gap between safety management systems and operators.

“I look forward to using my experience of operations, enforcement, and internal safety compliance to support customers and to be a dependable, professional voice within Food Alert.”

The regulatory enforcement horizon for food businesses is highly topical, with new models for food standards and hygiene enforcement currently in consultation. There is increasing demand for food businesses to ensure excellence when developing and implementing compliance procedures and protecting the safety of their consumers.

Sioned continued: “Subjects such as allergen management are at the forefront of potential future legislation, which can be challenging for food businesses of all sizes. Set against the backdrop of an already challenging operating landscape, professional third-party support and advice has never been more valuable.”

David Bashford, Managing Director at Food Alert, added: “Food Alert is poised to support clients with changes to regulatory enforcement as the industry continues to evolve.

“Sioned has a unique insight into the challenges faced by food businesses, and I’ve no doubt that this experience will contribute towards further growth and development for the organisation.”