Karl Buiks' resignation, for personal reasons, will take effect immediately.
Photo: The Kingfish Company.
In a statement released today, The Kingfish Company announced that newly appointed Karl Buiks has resigned from his position as CEO, effective immediately, for personal reasons. "The Board respects his decision and wishes him well," the statement added.
The appointment of the new—now former—Chief Executive Officer had been announced less than a month ago, following a search that began in August when the current CEO, Vincent Erenst, announced his retirement.
December was the month when the incoming CEO and outgoing CEO were going to work together to ensure a smooth transition in what was described as a pivotal moment for the company, a pioneer and leader in land-based production of yellowtail kingfish based on advanced recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS).
Now, The Kingfish Company has also announced that Erenst has agreed to postpone his retirement and will continue to lead the business for an additional year.
"On behalf of the Supervisory Board, I would like to thank Vincent for agreeing to continue in his role for the coming 12 months. This ensures continuity in the company's leadership and operations during this period," stated Jeroen Scheelbeek, Chairman of the Supervisory Board.
Vincent Erenst will remain CEO of The Kingfish for the coming 12 months.
The Netherlands-based company, which had called an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) for Tuesday, December 23, 2025, has decided to cancel it.
"Following Mr Buiks' resignation, as described above, there is no longer a need to hold the EGM. Consequently, it was resolved that the convocation of the planned EGM is revoked and that the EGM will no longer take place," the statement reads.
The news comes just one day after The Kingfish Company also announced that Jordi Trias will be stepping down from his position as a member of the company's Supervisory Board during the first quarter of 2026, as he intends to focus more fully on his responsibilities as President of Stolt Sea Farm.
Unlike Karl Buiks, Trias will remain on the Supervisory Board until his resignation takes effect. "His perspective and experience will be greatly missed," Scheelbeek said yesterday, after the news broke, thanking Trias on behalf of the Board for his "exceptional contribution" over the past three years.