“a unique depth of expertise” that will help the whole industry
Andrew Threlfall is the new Technical and Policy Director of the Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA). With over 36 years’ experience of the foodservice industry to offer in his new role, he is ideally placed to deliver the best possible advice in technical and regulatory issues to FEA members.
The role will cover UK and EU policy developments, standards committee membership and the operational technical matters affecting all types of foodservice equipment.
This addition to the team as a full-time employee builds on the work which has been provided via consultancy services in the past. The FEA is grateful to Nick Oryino for his excellent work over the past five years, who took over from the late Bryan Whittaker when he retired.
Andrew began his career as an apprentice service engineer at Acme Refrigeration back in 1985. He worked his way up to catering equipment service manager there, gaining experience across a range of specialist areas. In 2007 he moved to Pentland Wholesale Ltd where he helped to modify and streamline their service department, becoming its group technical & compliance manager and being appointed technical director in January 2020. He holds current qualifications relating to a range of areas relevant to the foodservice industry, including gas, refrigeration and electrical. This means he is uniquely placed to represent all product sectors within the FEA.
A natural communicator and skilled educator, Andrew has unparalleled experience in training employees, service and project management, and interpreting legislation and testing standards. Alongside that he possesses an ever-growing list of professional qualifications. Most recently, in December 2021, he completed a CPD Certificate covering hydrogen and the role of engineering materials in achieving a safe carbon net zero.
“I’m always on the hunt for ways to both use and expand my knowledge, and I’m always keen to get stuck into new challenges,” says Andrew. “I’m looking forward to joining FEA, both to contribute to the industry and to continue broadening my horizons.”
“We are excited to have attracted Andrew, with his exceptional skill set and knowledge, to join us,” says Stephen Hobbs, Chair of FEA. “The appointment is part of our strategic plan to further strengthen our work and its value to members. Andrew brings unrivalled depth of expertise that will benefit our industry. We’re looking forward to getting his insight on how best to help our members with the huge variety of technical issues they encounter.”