Hawthorn, who returned to New Zealand earlier this year, brings to the new position more than 35 years of farming and salmon business international experience.
Photo: Aquaculture New Zealand.
Aquaculture New Zealand announced that, after decades of service, its Chair, Bruce Hearn, has stepped down and Stewart Hawthorn has been appointed to replace him. Following this change at the helm, Hearn, who, according to the announcement, has devoted decades of leadership, knowledge, and passion to advancing New Zealand's aquaculture sector, will remain as a Mussel Director on the Board.
"Bruce's contribution to the aquaculture sector cannot be overstated," said Aquaculture New Zealand CEO Tee Hale Pennington, taking stock of the work of the long-standing Chair and industry pioneer. "His vision, hands-on knowledge, and tireless dedication over many decades have not only shaped the industry we see today but have also inspired innovation at every level."
In its statement, Aquaculture New Zealand highlighted that under the outgoing Chair's leadership, the industry has experienced transformative growth, driven by "his unparalleled expertise in farming a diverse range of species and his unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability."
The NZ aquaculture industry association continued its statement by claiming that Hearn's deep industry knowledge has helped position New Zealand as a global leader in aquaculture, fostering an environment where new technologies and sustainable practices could thrive.
"His efforts have been instrumental in enabling the sector to deliver world-class, premium products while creating opportunities that support regional prosperity and employment across the country," it reads.
As mentioned above, following Bruce Hearn's retirement, Aquaculture New Zealand has announced the appointment of Stewart Hawthorn as the new Chair. The Board has welcomed the CEO of Akaroa King Salmon by saying that his "steady hand, strategic expertise, and commitment to excellence" will guide the industry through its next era of growth.
Hawthorn, who Aquaculture NZ has highlighted as bringing a wealth of practical business experience to this leadership role, along with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and community partnerships - "all values that will build on Bruce's remarkable legacy" - relocated back to New Zealand from Scotland earlier this year.
Appointed CEO of New Zealand Akaroa King Salmon in January, upon his arrival, the company highlighted that Stewart Hawthorn has more than 35 years of farming and salmon business experience after holding various leadership roles in companies such as Dawnfresh Seafoods and Loch Long Salmon - where he held leadership positions -, and countries like Canada and Scotland.
"I'm honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal time for New Zealand aquaculture," Hawthorn said now, commenting on his appointment as Aquaculture NZ Chair. "Bruce's leadership has created a strong platform for success, and I look forward to working with the Board and the industry to continue driving innovation and sustainable growth for our aquaculture sector."
