As part of our continued commitment to provide excellent membership value, we are delighted to be launching the Industry Specialist Group.
The Industry Specialist Group will represent dietitians working in all areas of industry. The specialist group will aim to develop CPD and networking opportunities, support and encourage career progression, develop policy and resources and cultivate the future workforce by fostering talent and creating student placements.
Liz Stockley, BDA CEO said:
I am very excited to be able to add a brand-new specialist group to the 21 we currently have at the BDA. The Industry Specialist Group will give those working in industry the opportunity to collaborate on projects, share their experiences and champion dietetics in their different sectors.
I would like to send a warm welcome to the Committee and thank you for all your hard work so far and commitment in launching the group. I look forward to working with you and welcoming you to our vibrant and proactive BDA group and branch network. I can’t wait to see how you develop.
The group's first-year activity includes:
- Raise the profile of dietitians working in industry and the dietetic community.
- Provide a source of networking and peer-to-peer support for those working in industry roles.
- Work closely with universities and industry to create at least five new student placements which will help to foster new talent and provide more job opportunities for the dietetic and nutrition community.
- Encourage career development and progression by providing dietitians with education and training on professional skills.
- Provide guidance on adhering to the HCPC code of conduct and ethics and maintaining dietetic competencies in a non-clinical role.
The specialist group is led by a committee of volunteers, including Corrine Toyn as the Chair.
Corrine said:
I'm thrilled to be a part of launching the new BDA Industry Specialist Group. We want to provide a shared platform for industry dietitians and those considering a career in industry, to connect and support one another.
"Our committee includes a team of fantastic dietitians working across a range of industry settings and I'm really excited to share our own experiences. We are also planning a number of activities over the next couple of years focused on raising the profile of dietitians working in industry.
Sammie Gill, Vice Chair said:
As a committee, we're really looking forward to building an extensive community of dietitians who work across industry. The group will allow a safe space for sharing experiences, as well as providing support, guidance, networking and opportunities.
Join today
We are now welcoming all members of the BDA to join the specialist group for an annual subscription of £25. The committee has developed a varied programme of activity including CPD, events and resources to support members with an interest in this area.
If you would like to join this exciting and innovative specialist group, please email your name and BDA membership number to [email protected].
Get involved
To help us achieve as much as possible we rely on our proactive member volunteers who give their time, energy and expertise to a range of vital roles. We are welcoming all members to get involved with the work of the group and are seeking members to join the committee in the following roles:
- Events Officer
- Sponsorship Officer
The roles can seem a little daunting at first but we have a fantastic committee in place to help support you, lots of staff support and training is available to further develop your skills. This is an exciting time to be joining the group committee and there is lots of opportunity to make a real difference to dietitians working in industry.
There are lots of benefits to getting involved with a specialist group, including:
- Develop valuable job skills
- Make new contacts and friends
- Develop the profession
- Influence and lead the BDA
Nominations close on Wednesday 22 March. If you would like an informal, confidential discussion about the role and the nomination process, please contact Carlena Probert-Baulch, Volunteer Manager at [email protected].
The group has set up Twitter and LinkedIn social accounts, please follow them for the latest announcements.
