The BDA Food Services Specialist Group raises awareness of the vital role played by food and beverage services in all sectors. Membership includes clinical dietitians, dietitians working with catering colleagues, and dietitians employed within the food industry.
In her new role, Avis will aim to grow membership, promote the work of food service dietitians and partner with universities to include catering within placements. She joined the BDA committee as a member in 2017 and soon became the group’s treasurer.
Avis has contributed to key BDA publications, including the Nutrition and Hydration Digest, The Mental Health Supplementary Guidance and the Care Home Digest. The BDA recently announced her as an Unsung Hero to mark International Volunteers Day.
Commenting on her appointment, Avis said: “I’m honoured to have been made chair of the BDA Food Services Specialist Group. I’ve loved being part of this committee for the last eight years and I’m excited to be helping move it forward. For me, this role is about making a meaningful impact and raising awareness of the work we do.”
At Compass, she leads the healthcare dietetics team, with a focus on ensuring food and drink provisions consistently meet legislative requirements and essential standards, supporting the safety and well-being of patients, residents, staff and visitors.
Russell Blake, managing director of healthcare at Compass Group UK & Ireland, added: “We’re incredibly proud to see Saachi appointed to this important role with the BDA. I know she will bring the same energy, insight, and collaborative spirit to the group’s committee that she brings to our work every day.
“We look forward to supporting her in her new role and I’m confident she will make significant contributions to shaping the future of dietetics across the UK.”