Dick Jones closes his time as CEO of Blue Ocean Mariculture

Nearing the fifth anniversary of his arrival in the position, Dick Jones, the already former CEO of Hawaii-based offshore aquaculture company Blue Ocean Mariculture, announced two days ago in a post on LinkedIn that he has left the company. "After an incredible 5-year journey, I've recently wrapped up my time as CEO of Blue Ocean Mariculture," he wrote. 

Jones, who declares himself to be passionate about driving responsible ocean farming and creating positive change for the future of seafood and the planet, has more than three decades of executive leadership across the sustainable seafood, both in aquaculture and commercial capture fisheries, and food systems sectors, as well as in the non-profit space. 

Throughout a long career, he has moved through roles ranging from strategizing at mission-driven companies such as Whole Foods Market and H-E-B to leading non-profit organizations such as Sustainable Fisheries Partnership, or Ocean Outcomes, his last position before coming to Blue Ocean Mariculture.

Part of the portfolio of Cuna del Mar - an investment firm backed by the Walton Group that participates in companies that have the potential to disrupt the industry by being agents of positive change to produce a diverse supply of healthy and wholesome seafood, which also includes companies such as Innovasea, Santomar or SalmoGen, among others - Blue Ocean Mariculture is the only offshore mariculture farm in the United States.

Founded in 2009, it is dedicated to the responsible farming of Hawaiian finfish, specifically kanpachi, meeting the highest standards of quality and taste, in a safe and environmentally friendly manner, and with a deep respect for the oceans. And this, while supporting other initiatives such as the restoration of coral reefs using samples naturally grown on the company's net pens off the Kona Coast, Hawaii.

"I've had the honor of working with some of the most technically proficient minds in aquaculture — true innovators who combine hands-on expertise with a deep understanding of biology, engineering, and ocean stewardship. Passion for the craft isn't a strong enough phrase to describe the commitment of this team," Dick Jones said, assessing his experience at the helm of the kanpachi company.

"I'm proud of what we accomplished together — from strengthening operations and team culture to deepening the quest for responsible mariculture. I'm grateful for the partnerships, challenges, and growth that came with the role," the outgoing CEO added.

Dick Jones used his farewell message from Blue Ocean Mariculture to announce that he will now focus on Tidepoint Group, his consultancy dedicated to driving solutions for ocean health, food safety, technology, and responsible aquaculture.

"I'm open to new collaborations, conversations, and opportunities to contribute to this dynamic space," he concluded.