In this IFS Faces blog article, we introduce Serena Venturi. She is Senior Technical Manager within the IFS Standard Management department and IFS Representative for Italy. With more than 18 years of experience at IFS, she plays a key role in developing standards, professional training materials and expanding the IFS Network in Italy.
A strong foundation in food and agricultural sciences
Born and raised in Italy, Serena developed an early interest in the food sector, which led her to study Animal Science at the University of Bologna. Her academic background provided her with a solid understanding of primary production and the fundamentals of food systems.
To further specialise, she pursued a postgraduate Master's degree at the University of Padua, focusing on ISO certifications and food safety. This combination of agricultural and technical expertise laid the groundwork for her future career in quality assurance and standard development.
From industry experience to quality expertise
Serena began her professional career in the quality assurance departments of several food companies in Italy, including Dietorelle, Rachelli and Pastificio Corticella. In these roles, she gained hands-on experience in food safety, quality management and production processes, while developing a strong understanding of industry requirements and market expectations.
This practical industry background continues to shape her work today, enabling her to approach technical topics with a deep understanding of the real-world challenges companies face.
Growing with IFS in Italy
Serena joined IFS when the Italian office was among the first to be established globally. Since then, she has played a central role in developing and coordinating IFS activities in Italy. In this context, she serves as a key contact for Italian stakeholders, including retailers, companies, certification bodies and auditors.
As a Senior Technical Manager, she has contributed to enhancing the IFS Food and other IFS Standards by sharing her knowledge and experience in international working groups.
Bridging global standards and local markets
Today, Serena combines her role as Senior Technical Manager with her responsibilities as Representative for Italy. Within the IFS Standard Management department, she actively contributes to the development of IFS Standards and Programs. In particular, Serena
is the driving force behind the development of the auditor calibration training materials and is involved in expert groups to contribute to the development of industry and auditor training materials.
In addition, she is responsible for coordinating the Italian IFS Office and representing IFS in the national market. In close cooperation with the Italian retail federation, Federdistribuzione, Serena coordinates the National Working Group in Italy, ensuring that feedback from this important market for IFS is reflected in the International Technical Committee. She also works closely with retailers, suppliers and certification bodies to further develop the Italian market for our Standards, Programs and Services.
Working between global standards and local implementation
For Serena, working at IFS means combining international collaboration with a strong connection to the Italian market. Being part of a global organisation allows her to exchange ideas with experts from different countries, compare approaches and gain new perspectives.
At the same time, her close connection to the Italian market enables her to support stakeholders directly and contribute to the continuous improvement of standards in a practical and meaningful way.
Since the early days of the Italian office, she has worked closely with experts from both the food and non-food sectors. This continuous exchange has broadened her perspective, strengthened her professional expertise and shaped an open and flexible mindset, which she considers essential for her role.
Serena is part of a global network of IFS Representatives supporting stakeholders worldwide.
Find your local IFS Contact here.
