ABST appoints Dawn Foods’ Jacqui Passmore as its new president

Jacqui Passmore has been named as the new president of the Alliance for Bakery Students and Trainees (ABST).

The marketing lead for bakery ingredients supplier Dawn Foods’ West EU & AMEAP division replaces Lucas Fussnegger at the head of the non-profit organisation, who completed his two-year term.

Described as a passionate champion of young bakers, Passmore brings extensive food industry experience to the role including the last 15 years in bakery. She has been behind many of Dawn UK’s innovative marketing campaigns, as well as the company’s successful Student Ambassador programme with University College Birmingham, which is now in its sixth year.

She has also been a regular contributor to British Baker’s trends and market analysis reports, sharing her insights on recent topics including chocolate in bakery and doughnut filling flavours.

“Bakery is such a fast moving and exciting industry to be a part of,” commented Passmore. “From working in family-owned high street bakeries, through to NPD for big brand names, the opportunities are vast and varied.

“Dawn has always been at the forefront of championing new bakers coming into the industry – it forms an integral part of our global CSR programme – so I am absolutely delighted to be taking on presidency of the ABST and working with the bakers of the future,” she added.

Founded in 1925, the ABST offers free membership to students and bakery apprentices and aims to support them throughout their education or training period. This can include the chance to take part in bakery competitions to highlight their skills, assistance with access to ingredients, and industry insight to help develop their skills and knowledge.

Passmore’s appointment was announced at the recent annual ABST conference held at Alton Towers Conference Centre, which was said to be a fun-filled weekend of education and networking attended by more than 250 young bakery students and trainees.

“The recent conference was a delight, and I am looking forward to working with the committee and ABST members during my tenure,” said Passmore.

In addition to naming its new president, the ABST also gave an Honorary Life Membership to Christopher Freeman, the Dunn’s Bakery director who founded National Doughnut Week back in 1992.