Daniel Suddaby will no longer serve as the executive director of the Global Tuna Alliance (GTA) after three years in the role, citing a desire for a “change in direction” from the GTA board.
Suddaby said he’ll “take a moment to reflect before considering next steps” but aims to continue working in the sustainability and fisheries realm.
"Over the past three years, it’s been a privilege to work with an outstanding team and a committed group of Partners to help grow GTA from a small organization into a more globally engaged, impact-focused alliance, with recent advocacy progress at the WCPFC being a particular highlight,” Suddaby wrote in a LinkedIn post. “On a personal level, it’s a bittersweet moment to be stepping away from work and people I cared deeply about – work that demanded a great deal of focus, energy, and commitment. I’m incredibly proud of what was built together.”
In a release, GTA said the chair of the organization's board, Aoife Martin, will fill in as interim executive director while the board looks for a permanent candidate.
“The Board appreciates the contribution Daniel has made to the GTA and in advancing improvements to the management of global tuna fisheries,” GTA said in a release. “During his tenure, Daniel has helped transform the GTA into a high-performing global team. He expanded operational capacity, significantly strengthened the organization’s funding base, and broadened the GTA’s reach and scope.”
Suddaby held the executive director role starting 22 May 2023, when he replaced Tom Pickerell. Pickerell left GTA to join the Pew Charitable Trusts as its manager of international fisheries, and Suddaby filled the role with more than 20 years of fishery experience and marine conservation.
"The GTA has already made significant strides in accelerating sustainable tuna management and fishing practices, and I am excited to lead the organization and amplify its impact by working collaboratively with our partners to drive positive change in the global tuna supply chain," Suddaby said in May 2023. "Together, we will build upon the exceptional work accomplished thus far, fostering an increased collective commitment for our oceans and the communities that depend on them."
In February 2025, Suddaby spoke to SeafoodSource about GTA’s role in advocating for companies’ voices in regional fishery management organizations’ decision-making and tuna management. He also spoke about GTA’s strategic plan to ensure global supply chains access responsible, low-risk, and stable supplies of tuna.
