Since 2017, we’ve taken our services further afield, assisting with Official Controls in the Falkland Islands.

This year, E&J Technical Manager, Gancho Chakov, and experienced Meat Hygiene Inspector, Rodrigo Pompeu, will be spending six months in this beautiful place, ensuring plant production is running smoothly ahead of a busy season. 

In January, they will be joined by professionals from across the world, who will be working in the plant to protect food safety and animal welfare.

We caught up with Gancho to find out more about his experience so far…

What work are you doing in the Falkland Islands?

I will be working as an Official Veterinarian, similar to the UK as the plant is EU approved and they follow the same requirements. We will be helping the team to safeguard animal welfare and ensure all hygiene requirements are followed, to provide safe meat to the public in the Falkland Islands.

Why did you choose to apply for this secondment opportunity?

Since 2017, I knew that E&J provided services in the Falklands, and I always have been curious to see another side of the world. I wanted to explore the islands and see penguins in their natural habitat.

When the opportunity came up, I decided to step back from my position as Technical Manager, so I could work as an Official Veterinarian in an abattoir again and learn a bit more about the work in the Falklands. 

Any reflections on your time in the Falklands so far?

I think the project is a great opportunity for Official Veterinarians to travel, explore and see how the things are done in another country. Every year, the Falkland Islands welcome seasonal workers in the meat industry to ensure everything is running smoothly, so there are many opportunities available.

Due to the isolated location, there are some specifics to the work that differ slightly from the UK, and it has been rewarding learning more about Official Controls in the Falklands.

The people in the Falklands are friendly, welcoming and open to new people and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far.

Interested in a role safeguarding animals and protecting public health? Head to our Join the Team page to find out more.