Kristian Botnen took over as CEO of Benchmark Genetics on 3 November 2025.
Photo: Benchmark Genetics
Benchmark Genetics has announced the appointment of a new board of directors, continuing the organisational reshaping that has taken place since the company became an independent entity within Novo Holdings’ investment portfolio in March 2025.
The update follows a period of high-level appointments at the aquaculture genetics firm. At the beginning of this month, experienced aquaculture executive Kristian Botnen took over as Chief Executive.
Botnen previously held senior roles at Lingalaks and AKVA Group, and his appointment was described by the company as a step towards “the next phase of growth and innovation”. His arrival came after the departure of former CEO Geir Olav Melingen and the appointments of Dr Ross Houston as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Jon Crowther as iChief Financial Officer (CFO).
According to the company, the newly-appointed board will guide Benchmark Genetics as it expands its global salmon and shrimp genetics operations.
The new board chair will be Tor Vikenes, a seafood industry executive with more than 25 years of experience, including as former chief executive of Norway Pelagic ASA.
"His career spans executive management, strategic development and value creation across multiple segments of the marine value chain. With his extensive industry insight and operational experience, he will provide strong governance leadership and strategic direction as Benchmark Genetics enters its next phase of growth," the company stated in its news announcement.
Other newcomers to the board membership are Renate Larsen, an experienced corporate director with a long history in the Norwegian seafood sector, and aquaculture specialist Dr Siri Vike, who brings more than 25 years of experience in aquaculture, fish health and welfare.
Benchmark Genetics said Larsen would contribute "expertise in governance, business development and long-term value creation" as well as "insight into both operational and strategic decision-making within aquaculture". Meanwhile, the company said Vike's "strong technical background, combined with practical operational understanding" would help the company "in advancing innovation and strengthening genetic solutions that promote fish robustness and welfare across markets."
The new board also includes two representatives from Benchmark Genetics owner, Novo Holdings, with Senior Partner Johan Hueffer and Partner Aleks Engel expected to provide investment and ownership perspectives.
"With this Board composition, Benchmark Genetics is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a global leader in aquaculture genetics and will continue to deliver biosecure genetic solutions for salmon and shrimp, expand its advisory and genotyping services to support producers worldwide, and maintain a strong focus on innovation, sustainability and long-term industry value creation," the company said.
“I welcome this strong Board, which brings a well-balanced mix of aquaculture expertise, governance experience and investor insight," said Botnen.
"Together, we will ensure Benchmark Genetics continues to lead and innovate in aquaculture genetics,” he added.
