Pret A Manger has appointed Kate Stein as global technical director to drive the company’s allergy strategy.

Stein had previously spent more than 20 years working at Marks & Spencer in both the chilled and ambient sectors, most recently holding a position in its senior technical leadership team.

In her new role at Pret, Stein will drive implementation of key elements of Pret’s Allergy Action Plan globally and will also oversee policies across the business on food standards, safety and consumer protection.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Kate to Pret. She brings extensive industry experience that will complement and enhance our food team,” said Clare Clough, Pret food & coffee director.

“Kate’s appointment will be pivotal as we continue to strengthen Pret’s food policies and transform our menu to serve changing consumer needs.”

Stein added that she was “delighted” to be joining the Pret team.

“I’ve always admired Pret and its ability to bring innovative, on-trend, freshly-prepared delicious food and drink to consumers. It has been encouraging to see how Pret has transformed its business to improve food safety and support customers with allergies,” she added.

Pret has shaken up its activity around allergens following the death of teenager Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who died after suffering an allergic reaction to sesame used in the dough of a Pret A Manger baguette.