The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is the convenor, adviser and voice of the UK food & drink industry, the largest manufacturing sector in the country.
We are funded by membership subscriptions and commercial revenue.
We represent more than 1000 food and drink companies, from global brands to thriving small businesses.
The FDF is a powerful unified voice for the industry and we act on our members' behalf on the business-critical issues of the day. We communicate our industry's values and concerns to Government, regulators, consumers and the media.
We also provide our members with a range of expertise and guidance including; food safety and science concerns, trade and regulatory policy, nutrition and health, sustainability including plastics and energy.
Employing around 70 people in London, Edinburgh and Wales, we’re a supportive and friendly team who strive for excellence in everything we do, working collaboratively to effectively represent our members' interests.
Our employees think that we're a great organisation to work for - in our latest employee engagement survey, 96% said they would recommend working for the FDF to other people.
We recruit exceptionally talented people to work at the FDF. Read about our employees below to find out what it’s like to work with us and what makes the FDF a unique place to work.
Our organisation
The FDF is a powerful voice for the UK’s vibrant, resilient and diverse food and drink manufacturing industry. For over 100 years, we have successfully contributed to policy making and legislative development, championing our members’ views – large and small – on the critical issues of the day. We bring together business, government and stakeholders to ensure our manufacturers have the right conditions to grow, invest and employ, while continuing to produce high quality, nutritious and affordable food and drink.
Job vacancies
Find out more information about working for the FDF and to view our current job vacancies.
Our benefits
The FDF is a great place to work where we take wellbeing seriously and have a great benefits package to match.
Our people
The FDF employs around 70 people in London and Edinburgh. The Scottish team keeps members across the Scotland up-to-date with policy that could have an impact on their business.
Employee profiles
Kirsty Ritchie, Communications Executive, FDF Scotland
What does your role entail?
In a nutshell I manage the communications for FDF Scotland. I am responsible for both the communications strategy and for delivering all of our communications activities; including event management, writing all the communications from the organisation - including press releases and opinion pieces, social media, member newsletters, and engaging with journalist and politicians to build relationships.
What drew you towards your role?
I liked the fact the role was very varied, and it’s true no day is the same, I get involved with so many different areas of the business and have gained a great deal of valuable experience.
What do you love most about working at the FDF?
I love working in the food and drink industry, the people you meet are so passionate about what they do and of course I get to enjoy some yummy food – I am a real foodie so that’s a big plus point. I would also say that the FDF is committed to helping employees with their career progression, they supported me to undertake the CIPR Professional Diploma in Public Relations.
Describe your career path to your role at the FDF
I studied for a business degree and really enjoyed all my communications related courses, I decided I wanted to work in communications. After graduating I gained experience working for a drinks distribution company, the Scottish Parliament and the NHS, before starting at FDF.
How would you sum up your job in 5 words?
Fun, varied, interesting, busy and food!
Rob Albon, Finance Manager, Corporate Services; Finance
What does your role entail?
To be responsible overseeing the financial management of the business to ensure processes are efficiently and accurately recording accounts data. Ensure the FDF adheres to Financial / business policies and complies with appropriate laws and regulations.
What drew you towards your role?
I wanted to progress within the Financial Industry and when the opportunity appeared within FDF to progress to Finance Manager it was a simple decision. The role allows my personal skills and experience to grow each day whilst working in a very capable team.
What do you love most about working at the FDF?
The people, all FDF staff are very friendly and approachable and have made some good friends. It is very sociable if you want it to be and if you do not, that is respected too. The offices and the location are also great, good equipment and systems allow for a flexible working style which suits all.
Describe your career path to your role at the FDF
Started my career as an office junior importing Dutch cheese, spent 3 years at a local council as an accounts assistant whilst qualifying at AAT, moved to the FDF as an accounts executive whilst qualifying at ACCA, after 10 years in the role I received a promotion to Finance Manager and have been so for 9 years.
How would you sum up your job in 5 words?
Very enjoyable, continue to learn
Our benefits
The FDF is a great place to work where we take wellbeing seriously and have a great benefits package to match.
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