Building Canada’s Food Workforce: Parliamentary Reception

Jennefer Griffith

Event Host

Executive Director - Food Processing Skills Canada (FPSC)

A true driving force in Canada's food and beverage sector, Jennefer Griffith is widely recognized for her visionary leadership in workforce development. As Executive Director of Food Processing Skills Canada, she has spearheaded transformative initiatives, consistently empowering businesses with cutting-edge programs and providing individuals with the essential resources to not just advance, but truly excel in their careers.

Mike Timani

Event Host

President - Fancy Pokket Corp.

Chair - Food Processing Skills Canada

Mike Timani is a native of Lebanon and was born in Venezuela. He arrived in Toronto during the Lebanese civil war. He is president and CEO of Fancy Pokket Corporation in Moncton which was established in June 1989 in a 1,000 sq foot facility with three employees. Today, the bakery consists of 45,000 sq. ft. and employs 80 people. Fancy Pokket is the largest producer of pita bread, bagels, tortilla wraps and flatbread in Atlantic Canada. Mike constructed a 58,000 sq. ft. dedicated Gluten Free facility in Lancaster County, South Carolina which produces a variety of gluten free products. The new facility began operations in August 2019.

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About this event

Food Processing Skills Canada is pleased to invite Members of Parliament, Senators, government officials, industry leaders, educators and partners to an evening reception focused on Canada’s food workforce and the future of food and beverage manufacturing.

The reception will mark the launch of FPSC’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan and provide an opportunity to share insights from our latest Labour Market Outlook, highlighting the workforce opportunities and challenges facing Canada’s largest manufacturing employer.

Guests will have an opportunity to connect with leaders from government, industry and education and discuss how collaboration can strengthen Canada’s workforce, enhance food security and improve the competitiveness and resilience of Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing sector.

Please confirm your attendance by Wednesday, September 16, 2026. We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of meaningful conversation and collaboration as we work together to build Canada’s food workforce.

Evening Program

5:30 p.m. – Guest arrival and networking
6:00 p.m. – Welcome from the Chair of the FPSC Board of Directors
6:05 p.m. – Remarks from Jennefer Griffith, Executive Director
6:15 p.m. – Recognition of Parliamentarians and guests
6:30 p.m. – Networking reception

Please note that on-site parking for the reception is extremely limited and cannot be guaranteed. Valet parking may be available on a space-available basis at a rate of $60; however, attendees are encouraged to use nearby public parking facilities, including the Rideau Centre, York Street or George Street lots.

Event Details

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Building Canada’s Food Workforce: Parliamentary Reception

Jennefer Griffith

Mike Timani

Chair - Food Processing Skills Canada

About this event

Event Details

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Building Canada’s Food Workforce: Parliamentary Reception Agenda

September 23, 2026 5:30 pm

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