As AquaBounty Technologies begins commercial production of its AquAdvantage Salmon in the United States, it is adding a former Bumble Bee executive to its leadership team.
David F. Melbourne Jr., former senior vice president of consumer marketing, government, and industry relations and corporate social responsibility for Bumble Bee Foods, will serve as AquaBounty’s new chief commercial officer.
AquaBounty received the first shipment of its AquAdvantage Salmon eggs at its Indiana facility last week, and has begun commercial production – “a world’s first,” Sylvia Wulf, CEO said in a press release.
“Having David join the company now is perfect timing, as we anticipate the first harvest from the Albany farm in the autumn of 2020. We are focused on successfully commercializing AquAdvantage Salmon and bringing its many benefits to consumers,” Wulf said.
In addition to Bumble Bee, Melbourne previously held senior positions at Castleberry/Snow’s Brands, Inc., primarily in operations and marketing.
“As the company begins its commercialization of AquAdvantage Salmon, Mr. Melbourne’s 25 years of marketing and strategic planning experience will be a strong asset to AquaBounty in developing its customer business model,” AquaBounty said.
“I am thrilled to join AquaBounty now as it begins the next stage of its development and I look forward to introducing the climate-smart and environmentally sustainable AquAdvantage Salmon to consumers,” Melbourne said.
