Fresh heads for salmon body
Both the Chair and Chief Executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO) are being replaced this year, it has been announced today.
The SSPO represents all of the country’s salmon major producers, other than Grieg Seafood Shetland, and a statement released by them today explains: “Following a recent strategic review of the organisation, the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation is to embark on an 18-month programme of transition.”
Scott Landsburgh, who has been Chief Executive of the organisation for the past 8 years, has announced that he is to retire in the coming year.
Speaking to Fish Farming Expert, he said: "The industry is enthusiastic as it embarks on a period of sustainable growth and is looking forward to participating in background preparations for Brexit negotiations. At this key phase in salmon farming development, the SSPO Board will ensure appropriate resources and strategies are in place to address any accompanying challenges. Its plans for the future will maintain or enhance the current high level of expertise within the organisation to support this industry and its vital contribution to the Scottish economy."
He added in a statement: “As we embark on our path to exit the European Union, I feel proud to have played a part in helping farmed salmon become Scotland’s largest food export. This is, therefore, an opportune time for me to hand over the reins to ensure we continue to enjoy this success in European, UK and overseas markets post-Brexit.
“This is an industry of which Scotland should be proud. I am delighted to have contributed to its success over the past eight and a half years and look forward to seeing it continue to flourish in the future.”
Recruitment to find Landsburgh’s successor will commence in the spring.
Meanwhile, Gilpin Bradley of Wester Ross Fisheries is to replace Anne MacColl as Chair of the Organisation in March, in order to oversee the period of transition.
The outgoing chair told Fish Farming Expert: "My time at SSPO has been fulfilling and enlightening. The industry is going through a period of significant strategic change, coupled with an ambition to develop at a faster pace than before. I have very much enjoyed being involved in the development of the 2030 vision and look forward to seeing how that progresses.
"With the changes envisaged by the SSPO Board, it became clear to me that I would not have sufficient time to devote to the change management process. I’d like to wish the industry every success in pursuing its future strategy."
Bradley thanked MacColl for her services and contribution since her appointment in April last year, saying: “The Board is grateful to Anne MacColl for her work as Chair of the SSPO during the past year and wishes her well for the future.”
