In this edition of our IFS Faces blog, we introduce Konstantina Papastamopoulou, who recently took on the role of IFS Broker Standard Manager. With a strong scientific background in food safety, several years of experience in quality management and standard development, she brings valuable expertise to advancing the IFS Broker Standard.
A passion for food safety from an early age
Konstantina's interest in food safety began long before her professional career. Born and raised in Greece, she heard about major food safety incidents in the news as a young person, such as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and dioxin contamination in chicken. These events not only influenced European food legislation but also sparked her curiosity about food safety and the design of systems to protect consumers.
This led her to pursue a master's degree in food science and technology at the Agricultural University of Athens. Her background in agricultural sciences provided a strong foundation and, importantly, a comprehensive understanding of the primary sector, the starting point of the food production supply chain.
From industry experience to international expertise
After completing her studies in Athens, Konstantina began her professional career in the quality control and quality assurance departments of several food companies in Greece. In these roles, she gained hands-on experience in food safety and quality management while also developing a clear understanding of market demands and the expectations of major retailers.
Eager to deepen her expertise and expand her international perspective, she moved to the Netherlands to pursue postgraduate studies at Wageningen University. There, she earned two master's degrees in food safety and food quality management, enhancing her scientific skills and global outlook in the food sector.
Growing with IFS
Konstantina's connection with IFS began during her studies at Wageningen University, when she joined IFS as an intern as part of her academic program. During this time, she contributed to the development of the IFS Food Packaging Guideline, gaining her first insights into the processes behind standard development and the collaborative work required to support the food industry.Following this experience, she continued her journey as IFS Technical Manager within the IFS Academy, where she developed e-learning courses for auditors and industry professionals. Later, as part of the IFS Standard Management Team, she supported the development of the IFS Standards and supportive documents.
Stepping into the role of IFS Broker Standard Manager
Konstantina has recently taken on the role of IFS Broker Standard Manager, focusing on further developing and strengthening the IFS Broker Standard. While continuing to provide technical support to the team, she concentrates on advancing the standard and supporting its implementation across the global IFS network.
She sees this role as an exciting opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of the standard and to support stakeholders in maintaining high levels of safety, quality, and transparency throughout the supply chain.
A natural step to IFS
For Konstantina, joining IFS was a logical next step in her professional journey. Through her previous roles in the food industry, she was already familiar with and respected the organisation. From the moment she joined, she felt aligned with both the team and IFS's vision of driving trust and integrity throughout the supply chain.What she particularly values are the collaborative working environment and the opportunity to work with colleagues and stakeholders who share the same commitment to safety, quality, and trust. Contributing to standards that support transparency and reliability throughout supply chains makes her work both meaningful and rewarding.