The Thought Leaders Series – From Bristol to the World: Is the Food System Fit for the Future?
On Tuesday 24 June, Moon Executive Search joined the University of Bristol Business School to co-host the latest instalment of The Thought Leaders Series – a programme that brings together senior leaders, researchers, and change-makers to explore some of today’s most pressing global issues.
Hosted at Burges Salmon’s offices, the event tackled the increasingly urgent question:
“Is the Food System Fit for the Future?”
This discussion explored the vulnerabilities and inequalities in our current food system, and asked what needs to change to ensure it remains resilient, sustainable, and fair for future generations.
Spotlight on Sustainability, Scale, and System Shocks
The panel highlighted the need to rethink centralised food systems in favour of more localised, resilient networks. With the UK’s food supply facing threats from climate change, supply chain disruption, inflation, and shifting consumer needs, the session explored how we can better anticipate shocks and build in long-term adaptability.
Alex Stevens, Chief Sustainable Supply Chains Adviser at the National Farmers’ Union – and Moon Executive Search’s invited speaker – offered insights into how the UK’s agricultural sector is navigating these systemic challenges. From food labelling and supply chain fairness to the emerging Defra Food Strategy, Alex stressed the need for joined-up thinking between producers, retailers, and policymakers.
Heloise Balme, Director of Bristol Food Network, brought a community-led perspective, reflecting on the role of local initiatives and citizen engagement in building sustainable food systems. Drawing on her background in sustainable development and community farming, she shared examples of how Bristol is working to become a “sustainable food city.”
Professor Guy Poppy CB FMedSci, a globally recognised expert on food systems, reflected on his experience as former Chief Scientific Adviser to the Food Standards Agency. He urged greater cross-sector collaboration and reminded attendees that food is both a biological necessity and a cultural cornerstone – and must be treated as such in policy and practice.
Dr Lucy McCarthy, Reader at the University of Bristol Business School, rounded out the panel with a research-driven perspective. Her work focuses on reconnecting citizens to their food, particularly through ecologically led and farmer-centric models. As co-founder of the Circular Agriculture Hub, she offered critical insight into food system redesign rooted in circularity and justice.
Moon Executive Search in the Conversation
Representing Moon Executive Search at the event was Gemma Wilks, Head of Management, Engineering and Technical Practice. Commenting on the event, she noted the value of bringing together different sectors and disciplines to share insight:
“What stood out was the openness of the conversation. It’s encouraging to see so many parts of the system represented – from farming and policy to research and community action. Change in this space will only come through collaboration.”
Get in touch to find out how you can harness our network of business leaders to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
