Mixing international food safety standards with cultural requirements, Talia Salloum (MSc’20) played a pivotal role in planning and implementing food safety procedures and policies at the Paris 2024 Olympics’ central production unit as well as in four stadiums.
Building on her initial experience in this field during the FIFA Qatar 2022 World Cup, Talia served as a food safety referent with Potel et Chabot and Saint Clair - Momense - Part of the Accor Luxury and Lifestyle Collective. Her responsibilities included collaborating with the quality control department to ensure adherence to hygienic practices, procedures, and compliance with EU and French standards across major sites such as Paris Centre (Eiffel, Champs de Mars, La Concorde), Parc des Princes, and Club France. She managed a team of six trainees and oversaw audits conducted by the DDPP (Direction Départementale de la Protection des Populations) and the client. Additionally, she carried out food safety audits at Parc des Princes during the PSG season in collaboration with Momense's quality control department. Talia also liaised with local authorities to ensure that operations met both local and international standards.
One of the biggest challenges for Talia was ensuring the uniformity of food safety standards across venues while complying with French regulations and addressing cultural nuances. Collaborating with the quality team required meticulous coordination to integrate food safety seamlessly with overall quality objectives. Striking a balance between technical food safety requirements and cultural sensitivity was a particularly rewarding challenge, highlighting the importance of aligning global standards with local practices.
Talia’s journey from the FIFA World Cup in Qatar to the Paris Olympics has been marked by growth, resilience, and a passion for excellence. Each event has enriched her understanding of food safety in large-scale, high-pressure environments. It has also reinforced her belief in the importance of adaptability and cultural awareness when managing international operations.
“Engaging with multicultural teams and navigating complex international regulations has sharpened my communication and problem-solving skills,” Talia reflects. “This experience highlighted the importance of maintaining professionalism, respecting cultural sensitivities, and adopting a people-centered approach to achieve success.”
As an accomplished Lebanese professional on the international stage, Talia finds fulfillment in motivating others, particularly young Lebanese students who may feel constrained by local challenges.
“Challenges should never stop you from pursuing your dreams,” she says. “Stay focused, trust in your abilities, and keep moving forward. With hard work and resilience, you’ll discover opportunities you never imagined possible.”
Talia’s story exemplifies how perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence can transform career aspirations into real accomplishments. Her involvement in the Paris 2024 Olympics is not just a career milestone but also a testament to the crucial role food safety professionals play in the success of world-class events.
As she continues her journey, Talia remains dedicated to raising food safety standards and inspiring others to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles they face.