Katie Pettifer has been appointed the permanent chief executive of the Food Standards Agency (FSA), having served as interim chief executive since September 2024. Prior to this role, she was the agency’s director of strategy starting in July 2021. Her appointment follows a competitive recruitment process that underscores her qualifications.
Before joining the FSA, Pettifer held the position of director of Public Policy at Ofcom. She possesses extensive experience in senior civil service roles across the Ministry of Justice, the Cabinet Office, and the Northern Ireland Office. Her unique background equips her with a comprehensive understanding of both government policy and regulation, crucial for navigating the complexities of food and beverage packaging.
Experience and Insight
FSA chair Professor Susan Jebb expressed her enthusiasm, stating: “I am delighted to see Katie appointed as the FSA’s permanent chief executive. She has strong experience of both government policy and regulation, and brings strategic insights into how we can adapt and develop as an organisation.”
“Her permanent appointment comes at a significant time, coinciding with the emergence of new opportunities across government with the Plan for Change, five key missions, including health and economic growth, and the development of a food strategy in England. This includes the implementation of the Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework and Food Matters: Wales. I feel very confident that under Katie’s leadership, the FSA Executive will continue to uphold trust in the food system.”
Former FSA chief executive Emily Jones announced her departure in July last year to take on the role of director of food, biosecurity, and trade at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
FSA Appointments
Coinciding with Jones’s departure was the extension of Susan Jebb’s tenure as chair of the FSA, as requested by Ministers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Commenting on her own appointment, Pettifer stated: “The FSA does vital work to keep food safe and protect consumers. I’m delighted to have been appointed as the chief executive on a permanent basis.”
“In 2025 – the FSA’s 25th anniversary year – there are both challenges and exciting opportunities ahead. I look forward to working with the FSA’s partners and stakeholders across the food system to ensure people continue to have food they can trust.”
