New Director at Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland

Thursday 17 July 2008

Gerry McCurdy has been appointed Director at Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI), as successor to current Director Morris McAllister who is due to retire in September. Gerry presently holds the position of Deputy Director at FSANI.

Gerry (pictured) has a highly successful career history in environmental health. After graduating from University of Ulster, he held several senior roles in district councils, the Department of Environment and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. In 2000, he transferred to the Food Standards Agency as Head of Professional Services in Northern Ireland.

Before developing his career in environmental health, Gerry was an accomplished sportsman, playing soccer semi-professionally for Shrewsbury Town, as well as playing senior league table tennis for more than 30 years.

Commenting on his appointment, Gerry said: 'I am really looking forward to pursuing the challenges this role will bring. Drawing on the support network of committed staff I am driven by ensuring safe food and healthy eating for all. I take pride in providing independent and evidence based advice to consumers and contributing to the valuable work of the Food Standards Agency. I also enjoy the prospect of further development of our relationships with consumers, industry and other colleagues in food law enforcement.'

Tim Smith, Chief Executive of the FSA, said: 'I am delighted Gerry is going to be the new FSANI Director. He brings passion, verve and determination to the role and I am looking forward to working with him in the months and years ahead.'