Lifetime achievement award for salmon marketing veteran Su Cox

Bakkafrost Scotland communications and business development director Su Cox has been honoured with the Aquaculture Stewardship Council’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The accolade, which recognises more than 35 years of leadership and outstanding contribution to the UK seafood and aquaculture sector, was presented by ASC chief executive Chris Ninnes at the MSC & ASC UK Awards 2026, held at Fishmongers’ Hall in London yesterday.

Cox entered the Scottish seafood sector in 1989, bringing experience from culinary publishing and public relations to a young, predominantly male industry. At a time when few women held senior leadership positions in aquaculture, she established herself as a respected commercial leader and role model for others entering the sector.

Transforming salmon's position

The ASC said that throughout her career Cox has helped transform how Scottish salmon is positioned and promoted, championing its reputation as a premium, nutritious food and strengthening its presence in domestic and international markets.

For nearly two decades, Cox has played a central commercial and strategic role in the business now known as Bakkafrost Scotland, helping guide it through significant international growth and corporate change.

From 2014 to 2022, Cox served as a board director and ultimately vice chair of Scotland Food & Drink, helping shape the wider sector’s export ambitions. She has also held directorships with Salmon Scotland and Collaborative Export Solutions Limited, and supported the development of new international markets for Scottish salmon, including India.

Today, she continues to champion quality and innovation through her roles with SQS (Scottish Quality Salmon) and the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre.

A trailblazer for women

Presenting the award, Ninnes praised Cox’s extraordinary contribution to Scottish aquaculture over more than three decades.

“She has helped shape how the sector presents itself to the world, championed Scottish seafood internationally and contributed her experience and leadership far beyond her own organisation,” said Ninnes.

“Just as importantly, Su has been a trailblazer for women in an industry that looked very different when she began her career in 1989. She has shown through her own career what is possible and, in doing so, helped open the way for others to follow.”

Cox said: “When I joined the seafood sector, I could never have imagined the journey ahead. I have been fortunate to work with extraordinary people who share a passion for producing great food and supporting the local communities that depend on our sector.

“Scottish salmon is one of Scotland’s greatest food success stories, and I am proud to have played a small part in helping build its reputation around the world. This award is not just a recognition of my contribution, but of the many colleagues, industry partners and friends who have supported me throughout my career.

“I remain optimistic about the future of Scottish aquaculture and the opportunities ahead to continue delivering healthy, nutritious food, supporting rural economies and opening new markets for one of Scotland’s finest products.”