Simona Pianetti

About you

I am a Quality Manager based in Italy, currently working at Labanti e Nanni Industrie Grafiche Srl, a company specialised in cardboard packaging for various sectors, including the food industry.

I hold a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, which provides me with a solid scientific foundation for understanding chemical and microbiological risks, and supports a structured approach to process management and decision-making. I have further specialised in environmental management systems as well as the safety and compliance of food contact materials.

My professional background spans several highly regulated industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceutical packaging, and food-related packaging, which has allowed me to develop a strong multidisciplinary approach to quality and risk management. In my current role, I am responsible for the Integrated Management System covering Quality, Environment, and Safety, as well as product compliance and food safety.

Through my role as HARA Team Leader, I coordinate hazard analysis and risk assessments for packaging processes. I actively promote cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing, helping to strengthen awareness and build a strong culture of product safety and quality across the organisation. In addition, I am a member of the Board of Quality Managers of Confindustria Emilia, a leading Italian association representing manufacturing and service companies, where I contribute to knowledge sharing and discussions on quality and industry best practices.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading (especially thrillers), cooking, and solving logic puzzles, which I find incredibly rewarding.

Why did you join the BRCGS Professional Programme?

I decided to join the BRCGS Professional Programme to further strengthen my expertise in food packaging safety, especially in relation to risk-based approaches for food contact materials, through a structured and internationally recognised programme.

Ensuring product safety is a key responsibility in my role. Given the complexity and continuous evolution of food packaging and food safety requirements, I see the BRCGS Profession-al Programme as an essential tool to deepen my technical knowledge and ensure alignment with international best practices.

What value do you personally feel the BRCGS Professional certification brings to you?

The certification provides strong added value by enhancing my technical knowledge in product safety management and strengthening my ability to manage risks effectively.

It also gives me the opportunity to be part of an international community of professionals, sharing best practices and experiences while increasing my professional credibility.

How has the training helped improve operations at your site/company?

The training has contributed to improving our approach to product safety, making risk assessment and hazard analysis more structured and consistent. It has also supported a stronger alignment with BRCGS requirements, enhancing our internal processes and increasing confidence among customers and external stakeholders.

In addition, the training has reinforced my ability to lead the HARA team in a more structured and effective way. It has enhanced my approach to hazard analysis and risk assessment, allowing me to guide the team with clearer methodologies while improving the quality of discussions and decision-making.

What did you most enjoy about the training?

I particularly appreciated the practical and interactive approach of the training, which allowed me to connect theoretical concepts with real-life situations. The opportunity to exchange experiences with competent trainers and other participants was especially valuable, as it provided different perspectives and practical insights.

What are you most looking forward to within the Professional community?

I am looking forward to engaging with a network of professionals who share the same focus on product safety and quality. Exchanging knowledge, participating in industry events, and accessing continuous learning opportunities—such as microlearning and webinars—will be key elements of my ongoing development.

How do you plan to keep your skills up to date?

I plan to regularly update my skills through the BRCGS Professional Programme by attending further training courses and webinars. In addition, I see great value in staying informed on regulatory developments, particularly in the field of food contact materials, as well as packaging and packaging waste management.

What are your career ambitions/aims?

My ambition is to continue growing as a senior professional in quality assurance and product safety, strengthening my expertise in food contact materials and regulatory compliance.

I aim to further develop and lead high-performing teams, fostering a culture where quality, safety, and sustainability are fully integrated into daily operations, and to be recognised as a trusted expert in the packaging industry.