About
I’m Craig Leadley, a food technologist with 30 years experience in the industry.

I started my career at Birds Eye Walls before leaving to complete a degree in Food Technology at the University of Reading. After graduation I joined Campden BRI, a UK Research & Technology Organisation serving the food and drink industry globally. I’ve worked extensively on thermal processing and novel technologies for shelf-life extension. I’ve led teams working in packaging, product & process development, new technologies, thermal processing, hygiene and analytical services. This has given me a real breadth of knowledge – I consider myself a generalist that knows a little about a lot.
I have a PhD from the University of Birmingham which I completed whilst working. My PhD explored the use of high pressure processing with elevated temperatures, to produce ambient stable products. I’ve edited and co-authored 2 books on new technologies. I’m a former member of the board of trustees for the UK Institute of Food Science & Technology (IFST). I’ve previously chaired the IFST publications committee and I’m the current chair of its Food Processing Special Interest Group.

I’m happy to connect with new people – personally or professionally so please get in touch if you’d like to talk.
Let’s talk
01.
Food Technology
Talk to me for advice on manufacturing, trouble-shooting, scale up, shelf-life extension, new technologies etc.
02.
Grants & Research
I’ve spent most of my career writing and delivering grant funded research. I work extensively with industry and academics on food technology related research.
03.
New Technologies
Extensive experience with many shelf-life extension technologies – HPP, PEF, ultrasound, ohmic and others.
04.
Training
I’ve developed and delivered training in-person and through e-learning. have experience working with learning management systems. I also have some experience with Articulate Storyline.
05.
Speaker engagements
I’ve presented at conferences and events around the world – particularly regarding new preservation technologies.
06.
Articles
I’ve edited and co-authored 2 books, 8 peer-reviewed papers and over 50 R&D articles & reports. I’m happy to provide copy on topics within my areas of specialism.
07.
Thermal processing
I’ve set up safe thermal processes in the UK & the rest of Europe, South America and Africa. I’ve also delivered training on thermal processing, mainly UK based.
08.
Start-up support
If you’re thinking about starting a food manufacturing business and you don’t know where to start from a technical perspective, get in touch. I can help and I may even be able to help you to access funding.