The GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader and Benchmark Committee members shall carry out their duties in accordance with procedures specified in this document.

The GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader shall publish a programme of activities on the date of the establishment of a Benchmark Committee and this programme will be made known to all members of the Benchmark Committee and the scheme owner. In the event that there are changes to this programme the members of the Benchmark Committee and the scheme owner will be informed of these changes.

The GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader shall ensure correct procedures are undertaken during the benchmarking process and work with the GFSI Executive Director to record and document proceedings and decisions.

The GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader shall ensure, through the GFSI Executive Director, that all information regarding the benchmarking process is clearly and concisely documented and provided to all parties involved in a timely manner. The GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader, with the assistance of the GFSI Executive Director, shall be responsible for the recording, maintenance and retention of this information.

Members of a Benchmark Committee shall commit to participate in or attend meetings convened by the GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader in their entirety and shall also be committed in terms of time and effort to achieve objectives set by the GFSI Board. In the event that a meeting is convened and there is non-attendance of members, the meeting shall only take place if there is a quorum of members present.

Note: for the purposes of a GFSI Benchmark Committee meeting benchmarking a new scheme, a quorum is regarded as being 3 members of the Committee. This shall be the GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader and two industry representatives (retailer, manufacturer or food service provider).

Note: for the purposes of a GFSI Benchmark Committee meeting re- benchmarking or reviewing for an extension to scope of recognition, a quorum is regarded as being 3 members. This shall be the GFSI Benchmark Committee Leader and two industry representatives (retailer, manufacturer or food service provider).