New head for EFSA sought as Podger moves to HSE

Geoffrey Podger, executive director of Parma-based European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is leaving to take up a new role as chief executive of the Health and Safety Executive at the end of November.

His successor at EFSA is unlikely to be appointed until next year, following a lengthy recruitment procedure. This will involve advertising for applicants in the European Journal, compilation of a shortlist by the European Commission (EC), and subsequent approval by the European Parliament.

In the meantime an acting executive director will need to be appointed by EFSA’s management board, which is scheduled to meet in September. EFSA current deputy executive director Dr Herman Koëter is a potential candidate.

Dr Stuart Slorach, chair of EFSA’s management board said: “I am very grateful to Geoffrey Podger for all his hard work and success in setting up EFSA during its crucial and important first years. EFSA’s management board will now be asking the EC to make arrangements for the selection of his successor as soon as possible.”