Stephen Timms was nominated as Member of the Month having helped organise a recent technical visit to Wilkin and Sons and for the work he has been doing with IFSTs Education and Careers Committee.
How does it feel to be recognised as 'Member of the Month'?
I was surprised and humbled to be chosen as it is only in the past 6 months that I have been able to give back significant time and energy to assisting IFST although I've been a Member for over 20 years.
Why is it important to be a member of a body like IFST?
Support from IFST throughout my career has been invaluable in terms of Position Statements, guidelines for professional conduct and a recognised forum through which I've connected with many knowledgable Members and Fellows from academia and various sectors of the food industry.
Tell us about your current role.
I am currently European Business Development Manager with Biocatalysts, a leading supplier of speciality enzymes based in Wales. My role involves identifying and commercialising new applications for enzymes. In the food industry enzymes typically bring about transformational changes that affect a wide range of product and process attributes including flavour, texture, yield improvement and waste reduction.
You are a member of IFSTs Education and Career Committee, tell us a bit about your involvement.
My involvement has enabled me to raise the profile of food science and technology amongst businesses that work with schools and universities. This has been particularly fulfilling for me as the IFST inspired me at age 14 to select the academic subjects which underpinned my early career.
How do you keep up to date with Food Science and Technology news?
I subscribe to industry titles, receive regular e-newsletters and network at conferences, workshops and IFST events. Even after 30 years working in the sector I still have an enquiring mind !
