By Kristie Grzywinski, Director of Technical Services, SQFI
I’ve dedicated my career to food safety, and one of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping others showcase 
their expertise in a meaningful way. That’s why I am incredibly proud to announce the launch of the Certified SQF Practitioner Credential, a game-changer for food safety professionals.
For years, I’ve met talented and knowledgeable SQF practitioners who pour their hearts into keeping food safe. They manage complex systems, navigate audits, and ensure that their facilities uphold the highest standards. But until now, there wasn’t a way to formally recognize their skills and experience in a way that stands out in the industry. This credential changes that. It gives food safety practitioners a way to demonstrate their expertise, commitment, and leadership in a tangible and widely respected way. It is also important for students and new food safety professionals who may be wondering how they can identify themselves as someone who has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to pave a pathway to a career in food safety.
This credential wasn’t built in a vacuum. It took a village—and I’m so grateful for the collaborative partnership that made it happen. The development committee, made up of industry experts and practitioners who know the real-world challenges of food safety, played a critical role in shaping this program. Their insights ensured that the credential reflects the skills and knowledge an SQF practitioner needs to succeed.
I also want to give a huge thank you to Exemplar Global for their expertise and support. Their reputation in personnel certification adds an extra level of credibility, ensuring that this credential is recognized across the industry. Working with them has been an inspiring process, and their dedication to professional development aligns perfectly with what we wanted to achieve.
If you’re an SQF practitioner who’s ready to take your career to the next level, I encourage you to explore this credential. It’s more than a title, it’s a well-earned demonstration of your hard work, experience, and dedication to food safety. I can’t wait to see it elevate our community of food safety professionals!
