McQuade succeeds Ian Stone, who is stepping down after serving in the role since December 2020.
With more than 25 years of experience in the frozen food sector, McQuade was elected at the federation’s AGM on 13 November.
Having attended her first BFFF event in 1999, McQuade she founded The UK Foodhall in 2007, which has since grown into a leading provider of British meat, fish and poultry products to the school meal sector.
In addition to serving as a BFFF director for six years, McQuade’s business portfolio includes three additional British food manufacturing companies which employ around 260 people.
Meanwhile, Stone is moving to take up the role of chief executive at apetito UK, a business where he has held various roles since he joined in 2003, most recently UK chief commercial officer.
BFFF needed ‘more than ever’
“I have always supported the BFFF for their championing of frozen food and the much-needed voice they give to the frozen-food category,” McQuade commented.
“Today, more than ever, we need the BFFF to speak loudly on our behalf about the sustainable benefits of frozen food, its role in reducing food waste, and the quality it brings without added preservatives.
“I’m also a strong advocate for the BFFF’s young leaders’ forum – encouraging the next generation is fundamental to our industry’s future.”
Rupert Ashby, CEO of the BFFF, welcomed the election of “inspiring leader” McQuade to the role of president and praised her “entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to British food and commitment to the frozen sector”.
“I would also like to express my gratitude on behalf of the federation to outgoing president Ian Stone,” continued Ashby.
“His invaluable service and steady leadership over the past four years have been instrumental in steering the BFFF through an exciting and challenging period which included changes following Brexit and lockdown. We are grateful for his dedication.”
The BFFF serves the interests of members from across the frozen food sector and entire cold supply chain. It campaigns with its members to “educate, promote and inform consumers, retailers and the foodservice sector about the value of frozen food”.