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International Women’s Day 2025: Creating life-changing opportunities for women in the world of food safety
In the leadup to International Women’s Day this year’s theme zeroes in on “Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” This is a global invitation to celebrate the achievements of women and advocate for a world where opportunities are available to all, regardless of gender.
Across every sphere of life, we all have a role to play in unlocking equal rights, power and opportunities for all women.
According to UN Women Australia, women have worked together to break down barriers, actively reshaped policies, and ignited powerful communities worldwide. Yet, despite these advances, millions of women and girls still face inequality, and economic disparities that hold them back from reaching their full potential. They have published a series of practical steps you can take to address gender equality this International Women’s Day.
To explore the theme in further detail, we are highlighting remarkable women who inspire and lead in their industries. Today, we bring you the story of Kim Jorgensen, a seasoned Food Technologist with over 40 years of experience in food safety and quality systems. Through her multi-faceted career, Kim has broken barriers and empowered others—all while making food safer for everyone.
Meet Kim Jorgensen, our expert Food Safety and Quality Management Trainer
Kim’s impressive background includes working in food safety with notable names like P&O, Golden Circle, Symbio Laboratories, and even playing a part in the Sydney Olympics as Quality Assurance (QA) Manager for catering venues. Today, she focuses on training professionals in food safety and quality management systems, as well as consulting to small businesses, farmers, and meat production facilities on food safety systems such as HACCP.
“I really enjoy my role as a food safety trainer as I meet so many new people and am somewhere different on a weekly basis,” Kim shares.
Her passion for food safety education and continual improvement offers a practical pathway for women to grow their skills and create equal opportunities in food safety and pave the way for success.
What makes a career in food safety exciting?
According to Kim, the variety of opportunities in the food safety industry are unparalleled.
“Having a food safety focus allows for so much variety. You can work in companies large or small, in Australia or globally, and explore all parts of the food chain, from growers and producers to customers,” she says.
Kim has done it all, from product development and production supervision to workplace training and even consulting on labelling regulations. Today, she enjoys the freedom of being a trainer and consultant, travelling to meet clients, and sharing her knowledge with the next generation of food safety professionals.
Tell us about the people who changed her career pathway
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Kim credits two individuals who significantly shaped her success.
Early in her career, a supportive CEO provided her with opportunities in training, HR, and quality systems—skills that eventually led her to work in South America for nearly four years. “That people-focused approach taught me a lot about leadership and versatility,” she recalls.
Later, a female colleague reached out to offer her a training position at Intertek SAI Global, further solidifying her expertise in food safety systems. The importance of mentorship and networking stands out as a recurring theme in her career.
How enterprises can empower women in business
Kim strongly believes that creating an environment of opportunity is vital for accelerating gender equality in the workplace.
She explains, “Businesses should invest in training and networking opportunities for women to help them find their strengths and passions. Early in my career, I got to attend food industry conferences and join committees, which gave me lasting connections that I still benefit from today.”
Kim also emphasizes the value of mentorship programs. “Give women the chance to mentor or be mentored. Having that guidance can be life-changing.”