SEPA regulator to become Scottish salmon sustainability chief
The Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO) has appointed senior environmental regulator Anne Anderson to its newly-created post of sustainability director.
Anderson has worked for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) since 1996, latterly as chief officer for compliance and beyond. Prior to that she was head of regulatory services.
In a press release, the SSPO said that in her new role Anderson will develop and coordinate an industry strategy for sustainable business to support responsible growth. She will champion industry best-practice in farming excellence and fish health as well as supporting the industry to deliver on its commitment to the 10-year Farmed Fish Health Framework and other industry initiatives.
Range of skills
SSPO chief executive Julie Hesketh-Laird said: “Anne brings a range of skills from her previous role in Scotland’s environmental regulator, which will be invaluable in supporting the Scottish salmon farming industry’s drive for continuous improvement and excellence in fish farming, fish health and other production practices through the supply chain.
“She will strengthen the SSPO’s expertise at a busy time as we continue to shine a light on industry good-practice and achievements, to ensure our fantastic sector thrives.”
Production achievements
Anderson, who is expected to start her new job later this year, said: “I am delighted to join the SSPO and have a leading role in helping this exciting and important Scottish industry develop sustainably. The sector holds a strategic position in Scotland’s and the UK’s food and export economies and I am looking forward to helping it demonstrate its significant production achievements and innovations.”
Anderson’s current employer, SEPA, is responsible for issuing the Controlled Activities Regulations (CAR) licences required for fish farms to operate.
Her appointment is the second announced by the SSPO this week, following news yesterday that former Scotsman political editor and Times journalist Hamish Macdonell is to become the organisation’s strategic engagement director, another newly-created role.
