UK – The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has welcomed a new addition to its board as Dr. Rhian Hayward MBE takes the helm as the Board Member for Wales and Chair of the Welsh Food Advisory Committee.
Appointed by Lynne Neagle, Deputy Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Dr. Hayward is set to commence her three-year term on September 1, 2023.
Dr. Hayward brings a wealth of experience to her new role, primarily in the field of science and innovation.
Her impressive resume includes serving as the Vice Chair of the UK Science Park Association and holding various public appointments for the Welsh Government. These appointments include membership on the Welsh Industrial Development Board and the Food & Drink Industry Board.
Hailing from Swansea, Wales, Dr. Hayward currently holds the position of CEO at AberInnovation, where she actively promotes research collaborations between businesses, entrepreneurs, and academics.
Her educational background is equally impressive, with a DPhil in infectious disease epidemiology from the University of Oxford and a first-class BSc from King’s College London. She is also a Fellow of the Institute of Directors.
Dr. Hayward’s contributions to entrepreneurship in Wales earned her the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) distinction in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2016.
Commenting on her new role, Dr. Hayward expressed her pride in joining the FSA Board and her dedication to supporting their mission of protecting public health and consumer interests in the realm of food.
“The role of advising on matters relating to Wales and representing Welsh interests is one I accept with considerable enthusiasm and personal commitment,” she said.
Continuing tradition of excellence
Peter Price, the outgoing Board Member for Wales and Chair of the Welsh Food Advisory Committee, warmly welcomed Dr. Hayward, acknowledging her impressive background and her leadership in advancing Wales’s food industry.
Dr. Hayward is poised to be a steadfast advocate for Welsh interests, spanning consumers, farmers, producers, and innovators.
As she embarks on her tenure, Dr. Rhian Hayward MBE promises to bring a fresh perspective and unwavering commitment to ensuring food safety and public trust in the food supply chain.
Her appointment aligns seamlessly with the FSA’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding the nation’s health and well-being through robust food standards and policies.
