Sara Autton, a technical specialist with ingredients company Fermex, has been installed as the new chairman of the British Society of Baking (BSB).

Autton took up her new role at the BSB’s AGM, which was held in Warwickshire earlier this week. She replaces Bakels’ Keith Houliston who has spent two-and-a-half years in the position.

Mike Bagshaw, founder and director of ITS, the bakery taste and texture specialist, has been named as the vice-chair.

Autton thanked Houliston for his support during her tenure as vice-chair and said she wanted to continue the work he had started to create closer links between the BSB and students. She added she wanted the BSB to become a “conduit” for students finding jobs in bakery.

The organisation also appointed member Sarah Priestly as its new student liaison officer.