Chief Executive Officer

As CEO, Tanya Barden leads the AFGC as a representative of Australia’s food, beverage and grocery manufacturing sector. Tanya held the position of Director, Economics, Trade and Sustainability with the AFGC for 7 years before becoming CEO in 2017.

Throughout her career, Tanya has worked in government and the private sector on policy, economic, regulatory and sustainability issues that impact the industry. Tanya also previously ran her own online organic grocery business.

Tanya is an Independent Director of Foodbank Australia. Tanya holds Bachelor of Economics and Bachelor of Arts degrees, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Chief Operating Officer

Colm Maguire is the COO and Company Secretary of the Australian Food and Grocery Council.

Colm’s role comprises leadership of organisational culture, HR, finance, business operations and governance as well as the AFGC’s member services and events.  

Colm joined the AFGC in July 2025 having formerly been the COO at the Pharmacy Guild of Australia leading a range of transformation programs, cultural improvements and outstanding results for the membership over his 7 years there.  Adding to the breadth of experience he will bring to the AFGC was his 10 years as the Chief Executive Officer of a National Sporting Organisation – Touch Football Australia.  

Colm has served on various Not For Profit Boards including the Council of Small Business Australia and Netball ACT where is currently the Chair.  

Colm is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a fellow of the Institute of Leaders and Managers and was recently inducted into the Leading Teams Hall of Fame.

Acting Director, Industry Affairs

Director Nutrition and Regulation

Dr Duncan Craig brings extensive scientific insights to the AFGC. He has worked across scientific areas relevant to food, policy development, trade frameworks and regulatory environments in Australia and overseas.

Early in his career, Duncan held several positions at FSANZ, including Principal Microbiologist. He also worked as Principal Scientist for the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (now the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) and took a three-year posting to Beijing as Counsellor (Agriculture) at the Australian Embassy.

In his role at the AFGC, Duncan works with members to support the industry provide safe products to consumers.

Director Government and Media Relations

Scott McGrath joined AFGC in 2022 after several years working in political offices and state and Commonwealth government settings. He has a deep understanding of government processes and jurisdictional challenges.

As a strong communicator, Scott distils complex technical work and clearly advocates for the AFGC at all levels of decision making. He manages AFGC media relations as a way to raise the profile of the industry and to advocate on key issues for the sector.