To keep up to date with the latest personnel changes across the seafood industry, SeafoodSource is compiling a regular round-up of hiring announcements and other personnel-related shifts worldwide. If you have an announcement, please send it to [email protected].
– Einar Örn Ólafsson has been tapped as the new CEO of Kópavogur, Iceland-based salmon aquaculture firm First Water.
Eggert Þór Kristófersson is stepping down as CEO after four years as Ólafsson steps in.
"First Water has reached an important milestone and is entering an exciting new chapter," Ólafsson said in a release. "With the completion of the first phase next year, the company will be exceptionally well-positioned, with double the production capacity, strong commercial partnerships, and a premium product that is in demand in key export markets. As construction continues and production capacity expands, we expect a significant increase in export revenues, providing a strong foundation for the continued development of First Water's operations in Þorlákshöfn. I look forward to building on the strong foundation that has been established and leading the company through its next phase of growth."
During Kristófersson's four years as CEO, First Water established operations in Þorlákshöfn and secured financing for Phase 1 of development on its land-based farm. Last year, First Water successfully produced and marketed land-based 5-kilogram gutted premium-quality salmon, the company said.
"With First Water entering its next phase of development, I feel this is the appropriate time to hand over the reins," Kristófersson said in a release. "I would like to thank the entire First Water team for their dedication and outstanding contribution. The expertise, commitment, and professionalism they have built together are the foundation of the company's success."
"I am delighted to welcome Einar Örn to First Water," First Water Chairman of the Board Orri Hauksson added. "He brings a broad range of executive experience across finance, investments, and corporate leadership. He has also successfully led a salmon-farming company and has a strong understanding of First Water's business. The Board is confident that he is the right leader to guide the company through its next phase of growth."
– Former head of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) Lee Weddig has passed away, according to a release by the organization.
Known colloquially as the “Godfather of NFI," Weddig led the organization for three decades, retiring in 1997.
"His steady hand and comfortable demeanor, coupled with insight and intuition, made him an ideal leader for an industry that faced policy headwinds and regulatory rough seas as a matter of standard course," NFI President and CEO Lisa Wallenda Picard said in a release. "Lee Weddig will be missed. We thank him for his service and his family for their commitment to the seafood community."
