The British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF) has appointed Karen McQuade as its new president, succeeding Ian Stone, who steps down after serving in the role since December 2020.

McQuade, a highly respected industry leader, steps into the post of president following her election at the federation’s Annual General Meeting on November 13.

She brings 25 years of experience in the frozen food sector, having attended her first BFFF event in 1999, and has made significant contributions to the industry since.

In 2007 she founded The UK Foodhall Ltd, which has grown into a leader in providing healthy, quality-assured British meat, fish, and poultry products to the school meal sector.

Driven by a commitment to sourcing locally and supporting British farmers and manufacturers, McQuade has earned national recognition, including 17 national business awards and 32 national product awards.

Today her business portfolio includes three additional British food manufacturing companies, employing around 260 people. A BFFF director for six years, she now takes on the presidency with a passion for supporting and representing the frozen food industry, particularly as it continues to address the growing demand for sustainable, waste-reducing, and preservative-free options.

Karen McQuade said: “I have always supported the BFFF for their championing of frozen food and the much-needed voice they give to the frozen-food category. Today, more than ever, we need the BFFF to speak loudly on our behalf about the sustainable benefits of frozen food, its role in reducing food waste, and the quality it brings without added preservatives.

“I’m also a strong advocate for the BFFF’s young leaders’ forum – encouraging the next generation is fundamental to our industry’s future.”

Rupert Ashby, CEO of the BFFF, said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome Karen to her new role and am delighted that she has been appointed as president. Her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to British food, and commitment to the frozen sector make her an inspiring leader for our industry.

“I would also like to express my gratitude on behalf of the federation to outgoing president Ian Stone. His invaluable service and steady leadership over the past four years have been instrumental in steering the BFFF through an exciting and challenging period which included changes following Brexit and lockdown. We are grateful for his dedication.”

Outgoing president Ian Stone was appointed in September as Chief Executive Designate of apetito UK, with which he has held various roles since he joined in 2003, latterly UK Chief Commercial Officer.