Nathan Pyne-Carter has been recognised by the Institute of Directors for the second year running. Photo: Stewart Attwood.

Ace Aquatec chief named regional Director of the Year

Nathan Pyne-Carter, chief executive of Dundee-based aquaculture technology supplier Ace Aquatec, has been named as Director of the Year for Tayside and Fife at this year’s Institute of Directors Scotland Awards.

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The awards, which were presented by Scottish broadcaster Grant Stott, recognise some of Britain’s top business talent and acknowledge exceptional leadership and governance.

It is a second triumph for Pyne-Carter, who was named last year’s Director of the Year in the Innovation category. This year he was recognised for his sustainable and international growth strategies; enabling R&D and international growth, whilst creating a great place to work as well as developing great product innovations.

Core elements

“It’s amazing to be recognised for this award,” said Pyne-Carter. “Our people and innovation are two core elements of our company. Everyone in our team feels a strong connection to our brand and appreciates being able to use their professional skills to make a positive difference in the world.

“In line with our global growth strategy, we’re focusing on R&D and the global expansion of our team this year, so it’s fantastic to be recognised for our work.”

Investing in R&D

The judges commented: “Nathan has shown an innovative approach to his R&D development and getting his solutions to market. He reinvests revenues in additional R&D and staffing to ensure he has the right blend of expertise and is continually looking to overseas markets to both develop his offerings and gain a foothold in areas that do not have his technology.

“His support of his people and utilisation of academia to develop his products really stood out. He has set clear key strategic goals for growth and has clear people strategies, both aimed at developing and growing his business.”

Ace Aquatec’s products range from acoustic and non-acoustic predator deterrents that are safe for marine mammals to electric in-water stunning that improves animal welfare at slaughter, and biomass measurement that uses real 3D data to improve accuracy. The company has contracts with all the major UK fish farmers.