We’d like to introduce you to our first BRC Global Standards Professional from India and the entire Asia-Pacific Region, Kamal Agrawal! We caught up with Kamal to explore his career journey and what this qualification means to him.
What is your current role?
I am working as President at MNK International, a Management Consulting Firm involved in training and the implementation of Various Food Safety Standards. I am responsible for training and implementing various Food Safety as well as other standards including HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, BRC Global Standards, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, SEDEX in different industries.
I am a master trainer for FOSTAC mandatory training program initiated by FSSAI- Govt. of India. I carry out training programs for Advance Manufacturing, Street Food Vendors and Storage and Transport for FOSTAC.
Why did you join the BRC Global Standards Professional Programme?
As I am working on other standards, it allows me to easily compare BRC Global Standards valuable difference. I find BRC Global standards more systematic, industry specific, highly focused on food safety and one of very few standards that cover food quality.
What value do you personally feel the BRC Global Standards Professional certification brings to you?
It’s a unique feeling. Although I have completed courses including Lead Auditor FSSC 22000, Lead Auditor ISO 9001, Lead Auditor ISO 14001, Lead Auditor OHSAS 1800, this programme was different. The concept of giving a badge is excellent. After completing all the required courses I felt a significant increase in my knowledge and understanding of Food safety and quality, HACCP and Risk Assessment.
How has/will the recognition programme impact your work?
It’s a great recognition. I regularly visit new industries and people, when I introduce myself as the first BRC Global Standards Professional in India I feel very honoured and admired. Everyone acknowledges my work and knowledge in a better way.
Would you have completed the component courses anyway?
I have completed BRC Global Standard for Food Safety Issue 7 -Third Party Auditor Course, Internal Auditor, Root cause Analysis, HACCP and Risk Assessment. All courses are very well designed and I gained a good addition to my knowledge.
How did you get to your current role?
Before I joined my current organisation, I served Dun & Bradstreet- a U.S based multinational company, as a Strategic Account Planner for almost three years. I decided to take a challenge and initiate a new journey of my life. I am thankful that my current role enables me to learn new concepts, techniques, standards and methods adopted in different industries. I faced initial hurdles but very soon it all worked well. I am thankful to my wife, my two kids and whole family who supported my entire journey.
What is your educational background?
I have completed my Masters in Business Administration.
What are your career ambitions/aims?
My aim is to train and raise awareness about food safety in India and outside India. I want to increase my understanding and knowledge of various Food safety standards and concepts at the best possible level.