Ensuring that the food we eat every day is safe and of high quality is a task that takes an incredible amount of commitment and effort. Dedicated food safety auditors and practitioners work tirelessly to protect the global food supply chain and further the mission of the SQF Program.
The SQF Excellence Awards, presented by Exemplar Global, celebrate SQF professionals who have shown exemplary work and dedication within the food safety industry. Nominees for these awards have been submitted in two categories: Excellence in SQF Auditing and SQF Practitioner Leadership.
The Excellence in SQF Auditing Award goes to a credentialed SQF auditor who demonstrates exceptional performance through high-quality audits, professional development activities, leadership and mentorship skills, and promotion of food safety culture.
The Excellence in SQF Practitioner Leadership Award goes to an SQF practitioner who demonstrates extraordinary leadership and promotion of food safety at their current site.
This year, we have six remarkable finalists representing the pinnacle of food safety professionals. The winner of each award will be announced at the SQF Unites Award ceremony in Orlando, Florida, on Tuesday, November 8, 2022.
Jose Contreras - Safe Food Certifications
Angela Tellez-Lance - AIB International
Joe Wieland - EAGLE Certification Group
David Franks - ONE Brands
Emma Sigmund - Rise Baking Company
Karen Vanegas - The Hershey Company
Presented by Exemplar Global
Qiang Zheng is the food safety and quality assurance manager at Melville Candy Company. He was an early adopter of the Certified SQF Practitioner credential when it launched late in 2024.
In mid to late August 2025, the food safety world will reach a major milestone with the release of SQF Edition 10, a comprehensive update designed to elevate food safety practices across the industry.
SQF Code Edition 10 represents a critical step forward in ensuring rigorous yet practical food safety management across the supply chain.