Land-based aquaculture company AquaBounty Technologies, Inc. has today announced that its CCO David Melbourne has been promoted to President of the company.
The reshuffle follows Sylvia Wulf's move to the role of Board Chair, in addition to continuing her responsibilities as CEO of the company. The previous chair, Richard J. Clothier, retired earlier this year.
"I am pleased to announce that Dave Melbourne will take on the position of President of AquaBounty, as part of our leadership progression to drive continued growth and expansion," said CEO Sylvia Wulf, announcing the promotion.
Melbourne, who joined AquaBounty in June 2019 as Chief Commercial Officer, has a background in general management, operations and commercial management and innovation.
"His 25+ years of experience in the seafood industry spans both wild fisheries and aquaculture. In his new role, Dave will oversee the day-to-day business functions for the Company, including current farm operations in the U.S. and Canada, R&D, quality, people management, and commercial operations," Wulf added.
"I am excited about my new role as President and working closely with the entire AquaBounty team to deliver future success. The Company continues to lead transformative solutions that will benefit the future of aquaculture, our customers and consumers. I am proud to be part of a growing, purpose driven organization, that provides a domestic source of Atlantic salmon that is safe, secure and sustainable," said Melbourne.
"With Dave in his new role, I will focus on strategic initiatives, including investor relations, financing alternatives to complete the Ohio Farm, business development including geographic and species expansion, and my responsibilities as Chair of the AquaBounty Board of Directors. We remain focused on the strategic imperatives that will improve, grow and expand our business," Wulf said.
"We have made significant progress in building a solid foundation that includes a motivated, skilled and dedicated team; enhancing and continuing to improve our operational expertise while building our customer base; and driving advancements in breeding, genetics, fish health and nutrition," she continued.
"I remain confident that AquaBounty has a bright future. While land-based farming using Recirculating Aquaculture System ("RAS") technology is still developing, the timing could not be better for the Company to leverage our advantages of vertical integration from broodstock to harvest, as well as our several decades of proven expertise in operating land-based RAS facilities; especially as we consider the negative impacts from climate change on food security and the environment. We have a strong, accomplished team, and together we look forward to driving continued progress," concluded Wulf.
AquaBounty Technologies, Inc. is a land-based fish farming expert raising Atlantic salmon to supply nearby markets. It claims that its innovative land-based farms, combined with its expertise in genetic engineering, are the answer to the world's growing demand for high-quality seafood. The company currently operates land-based RAS farms in Indiana, USA, and Prince Edward Island, Canada, with plans for a further facility in Ohio.
