Mike Kelly - Head of Environmental Health & Food Safety, British Airways
Ever wondered who’s responsible for the safety of the food and water on board an aircraft or the possibility of unwanted stowaways like rats sneaking into the hold? In the case of British Airways, it’s Mike Kelly and his team of just four colleagues.
“Between us we’re responsible for all food safety and environmental health matters for the airline worldwide. That includes not just the aircraft but nearly 200 hotels around the world used by our cabin crew. Under the Health & Safety at Work Act we have a Duty of Care to audit every aspect of these hotels, from the food to the air conditioning, the swimming pools and things like gym equipment.
“I joined BA as a Hygiene Officer, intending to stay for a couple of years, but like many others in the airline business, I got hooked and there's never been a dull moment since. We take huge pride in being multi-skilled and having to deal with so many different things. Working in the private sector does require a different perspective and perhaps a different type of personality. Certainly you need to be aware of commercial considerations as well as legal implications. Above all you have to have the courage to make decisions and stick with them.”