Speaker: Vladimir Surcinski

This DIFSC 2025 exclusive workshop introduces participants to the evolving expectations of auditors in the food safety sector. Divided into two focused sessions, the program combines theoretical foundations with interactive exercises. Key topics include effective auditor–auditee communication, conflict resolution, self-confidence development, and maintaining objectivity and integrity throughout the audit process. Designed for food professionals aiming to enhance their personal auditing style, the workshop emphasises both technical skill and behavioural competence—key components of modern, high-impact audit practice.

Speakers: Lucia Anelich and Lee Griessel

This workshop is designed for food safety leaders who want to go beyond technical skills to cultivate a resilient and high-performing team. We'll explore the critical role of mindset and team culture in creating a proactive food safety environment.

You will learn how to:

• Adopt a systems approach to food safety, moving beyond isolated issues to see the big picture.
• Shift from a fixed to a growth mindset to foster continuous improvement.
• Build a foundation of psychological safety, where team members feel empowered to speak up and take ownership.
• Master clear communication and crisis response to build trust and strengthen collaboration across your organization. This workshop is designed for food safety leaders who want to go beyond technical skills to cultivate a resilient and high-performing team. We'll explore the critical role of mindset and team culture in creating a proactive food safety environment.

Speakers: Dipon Sarkar, Mariem Ellouze and Deon 

• Risk vs hazard, likelihood, consequence, inherent vs residual risk, assumptions, variability and uncertainty.
• Introduction to tools required- data required, data sources, databases available.
• Detailed Case Studies: Mycotoxin in pistachio, Salmonella and chocolate, Listeria in RTE, camel milk Brucellosis, water.
• Group Risk assessment exercise.

Speaker: Lone Jespersen

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and a dynamic global food landscape, a robust food safety culture is no longer a luxury—it's a strategic imperative for Dubai's vision of a safe and secure food supply. This session, led by renowned food safety culture expert Dr. Lone Jespersen, explores the powerful synergy between human excellence and technological innovation.

Attendees will go beyond traditional compliance to discover how integrating cutting-edge technology and data-driven insights can transform food safety practices. We will delve into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this new landscape, focusing on how to build a culture of ownership and accountability that complements—and is enhanced by—technological tools.

This workshop is designed for food safety leaders, managers, and policymakers in Dubai who are committed to creating a more resilient, transparent, and trusted food system.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Fostering a Culture of Engagement: Learn how to inspire and empower employees across your organization to embrace new technologies and take personal ownership of their role in ensuring food safety.
• Navigating Implementation Challenges: Address the practical hurdles of integrating new technologies, from data security and privacy to the critical need for a skilled workforce in a smart city environment.
• Building a Sustainable Future: Gain actionable insights into how the perfect combination of human expertise and technological innovation can lead to a more resilient and transparent food system, strengthening consumer trust and supporting Dubai's global standing.

Speaker: Lisa Winnall