Zahid Sarfraz

About me

I am a QHSE Head, Auditor, and trainer specialised in Food Safety and Quality Management Systems.

Why did you join the BRCGS Professional Programme?

To be recognised globally is my dream. BRCGS gave me an opportunity and it is the first step. The BRCGS Professional Programme is a platform for the exchange of knowledge, bringing together like-minded people, and recognising real talent. My accomplishment gives me a sense of pride.

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

This BRCGS Professional certification has definitely broadened my horizon in areas related to food safety practices, and its systematic approach has helped me to apply the knowledge I've learned to improving food safety management systems. It is an additional motivation and also demonstrates my ambitious approach to continuous professional growth.

I believe BRCGS Professional certification has given a boost to my CV and made me more self-assured and confident when dealing with food safety professionals inside and outside of the organisation.

How has/will the recognition programme impacted your work?

Getting this recognition from BRCGS will tremendously improve my expertise in my auditing and training profession. This certification not only helps me get ahead of my professional goals, but also helps build trust and a sense of security in the eyes of my employer.

BRCGS certification will not only help me day-to-day, but could also contribute to supporting other food safety professionals, as I would like to be able to offer mentorship and advice to peers within the food industry. The recognition will surely have a significant impact on my current work, bringing new solutions and expanding my knowledge.

How did you get to your current role?

My passion in life has always been to lead others with great enthusiasm and innovation through training and consultation. I also enjoy developing programmes and solutions to address the ever-changing food safety and quality challenges that present themselves.

Combining these with my profound interest in Food Safety and Quality Management Systems has led me on this challenging, yet rewarding, career path in creating a culture of quality and safety. I was fortunate to work with over 50 projects and deliver more than 100 food safety and quality training programmes, working with different cultures and schools of thought.

What is your educational background?

I started my journey in Food Safety and Quality at university with a Bachelor's degree in Food Science and Technology and a Master's degree in Food Technology, both from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan.

I am a seasoned Food Technology professional with a strong foundation of 18 years of theoretical knowledge and around 10 years of practical experience. I am a Lead Auditor for the latest versions of ISO 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001, FSSC and Halal standards.

What are your career ambitions/aims?

To be one of the professionals helping to develop the industry by increasing the implementation of BRCGS and other GFSI-approved standards. I plan to become a BRCGS Auditor and promote BRCGS within relevant organisations.