Company SQFI appoints new Vice President for Business Development
The Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), a division of FMI – The Food Industry Association, has appointed Rachel Anderson as the new Vice President of Business Development, effective from July 2025 [1].
SQFI is preparing to launch SQF Edition 10, a significant update to the SQF Code designed to enhance food safety management across the supply chain [1]. In her new role, Anderson's impact is likely to be substantial in advancing global food safety standards and certifications.
As a global food safety and quality certification and management system, the SQF program extends its reach and impact beyond domestic markets [1]. With Anderson at the helm of business development, SQFI aims to strengthen its reach, partnerships, and influence within the global food industry. This includes working closely with food producers, processors, auditors, and regulatory bodies to ensure the adoption and continual improvement of rigorous yet practical food safety management systems.
Anderson brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having spent more than two decades in strategic sales, marketing, and supply chain operations. Prior to joining SQFI, she was the executive director of strategy at Gamer Packaging in Minneapolis, where she more than doubled sales [1].
Before her tenure at Gamer Packaging, Anderson held leadership roles at Reeds Inc., Cost Plus World Market, and Williams-Sonoma, giving her a foundation in both domestic and international markets. Her experience in strategic sales and marketing, coupled with her knowledge of food safety standards, will undoubtedly be an asset to SQFI.
Anderson's focus as VP of business development will be on publicizing the value of SQFI certification for stakeholders across the global food supply chain. Gigi Vita, SQFI's Chief Food Safety Assessment Officer and SVP, praised Anderson's knowledge, innovation, partnership building, and industry leadership.
Being part of a larger organization, FMI brings together a wide range of members across the value chain, including retailers, suppliers, and service providers. This collective work amplifies the industry's efforts towards food safety and quality assurance. With Anderson's appointment, SQFI is poised to further strengthen its commitment to enhancing global food safety standards.
Sources: [1] Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI) Press Release, July 2025. Available at: [insert URL]
- The SQF program, under the SQFI, is expected to extend its influence in the global food industry, particularly in private label food-and-drink products, due to Anderson's experience in strategic sales and marketing.
- With her background in lifestyle and health-and-wellness, Anderson may help SQFI to explore opportunities in sustainable and ethical supply chains, ensuring the adoption of food safety management systems that align with consumer preferences.
- As a seasoned finance professional, Anderson's expertise could lead to innovative partnerships and financial strategies that strengthen SQFI's business development, improving its competitiveness within the food-and-drink industry.
- Anderson's focus on communicating the value of SQFI certification may also attract additional supply chain partners who prioritize food safety, ultimately benefiting the entire health-and-wellness lifestyle sector.
