Stewart Hawthorn is returning New Zealand.
New Zealand Akaroa King Salmon has announced the hiring of Stewart Hawthorn as its new CEO. Duncan Bates, founding partner and current CEO, is retiring but he will remain as a board member.
Regarding this, Bates said: "After 40 years building Akaroa King Salmon it was important to me to find the right person to lead Akaroa in the years ahead. Stewart, who I have known for more than two decades, was my preferred choice as he brings more than 35 years of farming and salmon business experience to the role."
Hawthorn brings knowledge and experience in salmon farming after holding various leadership roles in companies such as Dawnfresh and Loch Long Salmon Ltd, and countries like Canada and Scotland.
"I am excited to be joining the Akaroa team and to continue my salmon farming journey with an innovative, independent producer of the finest quality salmon," the new CEO assured.
Akaroa King Salmon is a 100% New Zealand-owned partnership that includes Ngāti Porou, Ōnuku Runanga - the mana moana (guardians) of Akaroa Harbour - and the founding Bates Family.
In October 2024, thanks to the partnership with BioMar and the use of novel ingredients, the company became a net-positive fish producer, committed to reducing its carbon footprint while incorporating regenerative and circular ingredients into its feed.