Strong governance is key to maintaining confidence in global standards. At BRCGS, it is essential that governance combines effective operational management with independent strategic and technical oversight. Within this framework, the International Advisory Board (IAB) helps shape the continued development, integrity and global relevance of BRCGS certification. Working alongside the Technical Advisory Committees (TACs), it supports BRCGS in staying responsive to industry needs while ensuring its governance reflects the demands of a global market.
Where the IAB fits in the governance structure
BRCGS is operated by a Senior Management Team and supported by both the IAB and TACs. While the TACs focus on the detailed technical governance of individual standards and programmes, the IAB provides higher-level strategic and technical guidance. This creates an effective balance between specialist technical oversight and broader market insight, helping BRCGS maintain standards that are robust, relevant and respected around the world.
The role of the IAB
The IAB consists of organisations with a direct interest in the development, implementation and maintenance of BRCGS certification, including leading global retailers, food service companies and producers. Its purpose is to provide strategic and technical guidance that supports the long-term strength and value of BRCGS certification. In practice, this means reviewing and advising on strategic issues affecting the development of BRCGS standards, identifying threats and opportunities related to the growth of BRCGS certification, and monitoring performance and integrity.
Why regional representation matters
To reflect the realities of a global marketplace, the IAB meets regionally. This structure brings in perspectives from different parts of the world, ensuring decisions are informed by diverse supply chains, local market knowledge and regulatory environments. With representation across Europe, the Americas and China, the IAB helps keep BRCGS internationally relevant and better positioned to respond to emerging challenges, opportunities and expectations across different industries and geographies.
Supporting trust, integrity and continuous improvement
The IAB is a central part of the BRCGS governance framework because it brings an independent perspective, industry insight and global representation into decision-making, drawing on the expertise of senior industry representatives from some of the world’s most influential brands and organisations. It combines strategic leadership, technical expertise and continuous improvement to ensure that BRCGS governance remains aligned with the needs of the industries it serves around the world.