Salmon farm CEO Hawthorn takes chair of NZ aquaculture association

Former Scotland fish farmer Stewart Hawthorn has been appointed chair of Aquaculture New Zealand following the retirement of long-standing chair and industry pioneer Bruce Hearn, of Apex Marine Farm.

Aquaculture New Zealand, which represents finfish and shellfish farmers, said that under Hearn’s stewardship, the industry had experienced transformational growth, driven by his unparalleled expertise in farming a diverse range of species and his unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability.

“Bruce’s contribution to the aquaculture sector cannot be overstated,” said Tee Hale Pennington, chief executive of Aquaculture New Zealand. “His vision, hands-on knowledge, and tireless dedication over many decades have not only shaped the industry we see today but have also inspired innovation at every level.” 

King salmon

Hawthorn is chief executive of Akaroa King Salmon, which produces around 1,000 tonnes per year of king salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) in Akaroa, around 50 miles from Christchurch where it operates a smokehouse and factory.

He previously spent almost 13 years in New Zealand as general manager aquaculture for the New Zealand King Salmon Company between 1997 and 2010, and also spent time as farming director of former Scotland trout producer Dawnfresh, now owned by Mowi.

He is also a director of Loch Long Salmon, which was last week granted planning permission on appeal to establish Scotland’s first semi-closed containment salmon farm at Beinn Reithe, Loch Long.

A platform for success

Speaking about his appointment as chair of Aquaculture New Zealand in an article on the organisation's website, Hawthorn said: “I’m honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal time for New Zealand aquaculture.

“Bruce’s leadership has created a strong platform for success, and I look forward to working with the Board and the industry to continue driving innovation and sustainable growth for our aquaculture sector.”