The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) board president, Chris Downs, Ph.D, has now accepted a new role as the director of the Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA) Trailblazer program. Downs assumed his new role January 4, 2023.

Downs has over 30 years of experience in the agri-food industry as a scientist, leader and executive. Prior to joining FaBA, he served as the general manager for Crop and Food Science at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. He also previously led the food program at Australia’s national science agency, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). “I am truly honored to be a part of such an important program and look forward to continuing my pursuit of a healthier future for Australia’s foods and beverages in this role,” shared Downs.