Benchmark Genetics names new finance chief

Benchmark Genetics has named its new CFO as Thomas Samdal, an experienced finance executive who was most recently the finance chief for Norwegian research institute NORCE.

Announcing the appointment, the company confirmed Samdal formally took up his new role on 1 April, with outgoing CFO Jon Crowther due to retire after a short transition period.

The company described the move as "an important step in strengthening the company’s leadership team as it continues its next phase of growth as an independent company under Novo Holdings."

Benchmark Genetics became an independent entity within Novo Holdings’ investment portfolio in March 2025, and since then has made a slew of key appointments, including that of experienced aquaculture executive Kristian Botnen as Chief Executive, and a new board of directors which was formalised last November.

Thus far this year, the company has also appointed Bruno Decock as its new global commercial director for genetics services and Dr Andrew Preston as head of product development.

Last month, the company also announced it had decided to wind down its commercial shrimp operations in Fellsmere, USA, following a strategic review.

Benchmark Genetics said its new CFO brings almost 20 years of experience in financial leadership and related roles in auditing and corporate finance, including several Chief Financial Officer roles, and holds an MSc in Economics and Business Administration and a Master in Accounting and Auditing from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH).

As CFO at NORCE, his responsibilities included reporting, financing, sustainability reporting, and strategic financial management - a combination of experience which Benchmark Genetics argues gives him "a strong combination of financial rigor and hands-on operational insight."

Benchmark Genetics CEO Kristian Botnen said the new finance chief's background spanning both business and research sectors “fits very well with Benchmark Genetics as we continue to build on our position as a global leader in aquaculture genetics.”

“His ability to connect strategy with operational execution will be important for the company’s continued development,” Botnen continued, with the company stating it is now focusing on scaling up its global operations and strengthening its position within genetics and genotyping services.

“Benchmark Genetics plays a key role in the global aquaculture value chain, where genetics is the starting point for both sustainability and profitability,” Samdal said, adding he is “motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a more efficient and sustainable food system.”

“At the same time, it is very exciting to join the company at this stage, where we will continue to develop and scale the business,” he continued. “An important part of my role will be to ensure that the finance function actively supports the core business and enables the organisation to achieve its strategic goals.”