The Society of Food Hygiene and Technology (SOFHT) announced during its annual luncheon and lecture in London in November that it has named AIB International’s Kevin Shortland Trainer of the Year.

SOFHT was started in 1979 by a group of professionals to represent the interests and views of those involved in food hygiene across all disciples. Its prestigious annual awards are judged by a panel of experienced food industry professionals from the society’s membership, which includes food manufacturers, retailers, caterers, Environmental Health Officers, industry, consultants, research organizations, training bodies and students.

A food-safety professional with AIB International since 2010, Shortland has helped people from a variety of different industry backgrounds. “I have a great passion to help and train people in the food industry,” he says. “When you receive feedback from clients about the audit or training that has been provided with phrases like ‘taught by a professional who knows what he is talking about’ or ‘it was a real pleasure being part of the education you provided to enhance our knowledge of the food industry,’ it is truly rewarding.”

Shortland has more than 32 years of experience and has led many audits and training sessions on behalf of AIB International. His industry experience includes the meat and processed goods sectors, as well as manufacturing and British Retail Consortium (BRC) audits. He also has been a group technical manager for a large fresh produce company known throughout Europe, has studied microbiology and is a former Forces personnel.

“Kevin consistently delivers a training style that engages trainees and provides them with an immersive, interactive and enjoyable learning experience,” says Jeff Wilson, vice president food safety services, Europe, Asia and Africa (EAA) division. “He’s committed to helping people understand, embrace and implement a true food safety culture into their daily activities by providing an entertaining training experience supported by a wealth of food safety knowledge and best practices.”

“I had a number of great trainers at AIB that took me under their wings and helped me further my knowledge,” says Shortland. “If it was not for them, I would not have received this award. I appreciate top management for having the confidence in me to nominate me.”