Benchmark Genetics Iceland has announced the appointment of Benedikt Hálfdanarson as its new general manager, effective from March 1. With extensive leadership experience in the aquaculture industry and a solid background in international business, the company believes he will take the organization to new heights.

The new general manager, Hálfdanarson, says:

“I am impressed by the level of knowledge of the Icelandic team, and I look forward to benefiting from their experience. I am confident that together we will succeed in combining their expertise with my industry experience to achieve the ambitious growth goals set by the group”

Recently Geir Olav Melingen took leadership in Benchmark Genetics Norway as Jan-Emil Johannessen decided to retire after a lifelong commitment to the aquaculture industry.

Moving into a new role

Jonas Jonasson, former CEO of Benchmark Genetics Iceland and production director for salmon at Benchmark Genetics, has decided to focus entirely on the management of the global production of broodstock and eggs. He looks forward to dedicating himself to this role and continuing the impressive growth that Benchmark Genetics has achieved in the salmon egg sector since the company’s acquisition of StofnFiskur in 2014.

He is happy to hand over the management of the Icelandic company to Hálfdanarson, whom he has known personally for many years. Jonasson has been with the company since 1996, first as head of genetics and broodstock production, and since 2006 as CEO. He is widely recognized as the architect of the method for producing broodstock on land, enabling the delivery of salmon eggs all year round – a knowledge that Benchmark has also implemented in recent years in the land-based facility in Salten and in Chile.

About Benchmark Genetics

Benchmark Holdings offers products and solutions that enable aquaculture producers to improve their productivity and sustainability, helping to meet the need for sustainable aquafeed to feed a growing population. The company focuses on three complementary business areas – genetics, health and advanced nutrition – that are critical to the productivity and sustainability of aquaculture throughout the entire production cycle.