Seafood Scotland, the national trade and marketing organization representing Scottish seafood, has announced it is strategically enhancing its presence in key European markets through the appointment of a seasoned and bilingual export marketing professional.
Marie-Anne Omnes, a French national with a wealth of experience, assumes the role of Head of Trade Marketing for Europe. She will be based in Edinburgh.
Omnes' background includes a position as a policy advisor at the Paris office of the US Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agriculture Service, where she played a pivotal role in developing exporting opportunities.
Prior to this, she dedicated nearly six years working for Scottish Development International, culminating in her role as Food & Drink In-Market Specialist, also stationed in Paris. Holding a Master's degree in business management further strengthens her qualifications.
Donna Fordyce, Chief Executive of Seafood Scotland, emphasised the importance of European markets for the Scottish seafood industry.
"France, Italy, and Spain are three pivotal export markets for us, with growing interest from other countries," Fordyce said.
"Marie-Anne’s extensive knowledge of continental Europe will be invaluable as we explore new avenues to showcase premium Scottish seafood to discerning buyers."
"Marie-Anne is already mapping out plans for events in Europe next year, including a culinary school masterclass and media lunch scheduled for January in Paris," Fordyce added.
Seafood Scotland is the national trade and marketing body for the Scottish seafood industry. Independent and non-commercial, it is funded by the Scottish Government (Marine Scotland) and offers support to the whole industry without cost. It focusses on engagement with the seafood supply chain, rather than on direct-to-consumer activities. Its remit includes wild caught fish and shellfish and farm-raised species such as salmon and trout. The Board includes representatives from the Scottish catching, seafood processing sectors, with meetings joined by observers from the Scottish Government and Scotland Food & Drink.
