Gina Mortillaro, new Director of Scientific Affairs at the National Fisheries Institute.
Photo: NFI
The National Fisheries Institute, the US industry trade group representing the seafood industry, has announced it is welcoming a new Director of Scientific Affairs, Gina Mortillaro.
Mortillaro, described by the NFI as an "industry veteran" steps into the role as the organistion's science director for the last ten years, Margaret Malkoski, is due to retire.
NFI President and CEO Lisa Wallenda Picard paid tribute to Malkoski's work, while welcoming Mortillaro onboard.
“Margaret leaves an indelible mark on our association and this industry. We will miss her dedication and deep knowledge. At the same time, we’re pleased to have a regulatory expert with more than twenty years in the business taking the baton,” Picard said in a press release.
Mortillaro brings plenty of experience in R&D, technical services, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance to her new role, having previously worked for major seafood industry players such as Atlantic Fish and Seafood and High Liner Foods. As Director of Scientific Affairs, her remit will include managing NFI’s technical programs, providing regulatory guidance to members, and representing the industry with federal agencies and scientific partners.
“Gina has a strong seafood specific background that includes expertise in HACCP, FSMA, USDA, and NOAA regulations, as well a rich history of developing company programs to comply with any number of regulatory policies,” said NFI’s Chief Science Officer, Jon Woody. “Whether it’s food labeling expertise or review of new procedures and platforms she’s already done it and brings those resources to our membership.”
The NFI said that, addition to extensive regulatory work with various agencies, Mortillaro will also be coordinating seafood research initiatives with the Seafood Industry Research Fund (SIRF).