Driving Health and Sustainability Forward with Ashleigh from COOK
COOK’s mission is to nourish both people and the planet, ensuring the two go hand-in-hand.
Ashleigh, Sustainability and Responsible Sourcing Manager at COOK, is passionate about helping customers make healthier, more sustainable choices. The Accelerator gave her the commercial edge to take action - helping COOK align sustainability with customer demand and business growth. Through fresh insights and peer collaboration, she saw firsthand how climate, health and sustainability connect across businesses - from major retailers to small start-ups.
For those ready to drive the HSD agenda, our Accelerator programmes offer the tools, knowledge, and network to accelerate action. You'll gain the skills to embed sustainability and health into everyday processes and influence change across your organisation.
But what’s it really like to be part of the Accelerator? Hear from Ashleigh.
What was your biggest takeaway or most useful learning?
"My biggest takeaway was the collective realisation among the group—spanning huge retailers to small start-ups—of how deeply connected climate, health, and sustainability are. They’re all part of the same puzzle. The HSD programme highlighted the urgency of a systems approach, showing that positive change in one area can accelerate impact across the entire chain. To create meaningful change, we must fully embrace this interconnected approach.”
Climate and health proof points: What will you start doing differently since finishing the Accelerator programme?
"Since the programme, my interest in how we can help our customers make healthier, more sustainable choices has definitely been piqued. I plan to focus my work on taking more action in this area. I’ll also be more deliberate in seeking out opportunities for collaboration on health and sustainability. I’m a firm believer that we’ll go much further together, and the programme really encouraged this.”
Would you recommend the programme to others working in food?
"Yes, 100%! The content is diverse and spans so many important issues. I’d recommend the programme to anyone working in food who wants to know how to accelerate change in this space—not just those in sustainability roles.”
What advice would you offer to colleagues to help their work shape a better food future?
"Embrace a holistic approach that balances health, sustainability, and innovation. A systems-thinking mindset is essential—understanding how every decision, from ingredient sourcing to in-store merchandising, affects the environment, human health, and social equity is something we should all keep at the centre of our actions.”
How have you found being part of the FFM community?
"Being part of the FFM community has been an enriching experience. The support and spirit of collaboration among members is incredible, with so many opportunities for learning and connection. The Expert Events have been particularly impressive, covering a wide range of topics that continue to expand my understanding of the food industry’s challenges and opportunities. They’re a highlight of my calendar.”
Are You Ready to Lead the Change?
Healthy Sustainable Diets Accelerator: Join the next cohort, starting March 4th 2025 [Explore the programme and secure your spot].