New aquaculture and fisheries manager for Marks & Spencer

UK retailer Marks & Spencer has appointed seafood sustainability specialist Ruth Hoban as its new Aquaculture and Fisheries Manager.

The role sees Hoban move from UK seafood wholesaler New England Seafood International, after almost ten years with the organisation, most recently as Head of Sustainability.

"After nearly a decade with New England Seafood International, I’ve had the privilege of working across the seafood supply chain and with the wider seafood industry - collaborating with some of the most passionate and knowledgeable people, all committed to advancing responsible sourcing. It's been incredible to be part of the NESI team - brilliantly supportive and deeply committed to doing things the right way," Hoban wrote in a LinkedIn post announcing her new role.

"Now, I’m excited to continue that journey at M&S - a business I believe leads with quality, innovation, and purpose, especially in its approach to food," she continued, adding she was "looking forward to what’s ahead and to be part of a team shaping the future of responsibly sourced seafood."

According to information published on its corporate website, Marks & Spencer uses almost 50,000 tonnes (whole weight) of seafood per year in its products, with around 52% of this originating from wild-caught and the rest sourced from aquaculture. The UK retailer is a member of the Global Sustainable Seafood Initiative (GSSI) and part of the WWF Seafood Charter since 2010.