With 20 years’ experience in the fast moving consumer goods industry, Kelly Smith has an extensive knowledge of the sector – knowledge that is in demand by Competenz, the Industry Training Organisation for the Food & Beverage Manufacturing industry.
In February, Kelly was co-opted to the Board of Directors for Competenz. “What ibring to the board is diversity – led by my commercial background in sales and marketing but augmented by my gender and age.
“I also offer a different approach, having spent six years operating in private equity businesses. Being involved in governance in a not-for-profit organisation will be a new experience for me but one that ican learn from and add value to,” says Ms Smith.
Her career in the food and beverage manufacturing world has seen her working at Cerebos Greggs, Meadowlea Foods, Goodman Fielder and Griffins Foods in sales roles ranging from business manager to sales director.
Now taking on new challenges, Kelly is the founder and managing director of Biz Advisor – a consultancy firm for small to large FMCG companies specialising in sales and business optimisation.
Through Biz Advisor, Kelly works for the Food and Grocery Council – a key stakeholder in Competenz, and from which she came highly recommended.
“With more than six years of experience operating at executive level both inside and as a consultant, strategic planning and financial/commercial acumen are key competencies which I have developed and hope to use to add value with Competenz,” says Ms Smith.
“I want to make a difference and I believe ihave the ability to influence and drive changes. iwant to improve the level of capability within industry through on-the-job training – Competenz is the best way to do this.”
“Ms Smith’s strong connections in the food and beverage world, and her expertise are a valuable addition to our board,” says Competenz chief executive John Blakey.
“We look forward to tapping into her knowledge of the sector.”
