© Thomas Morel
Benchmark Genetics, a global leader in aquaculture genetics, has announced the appointment of Kristian Botnen as chief executive officer. In connection with his arrival, the company is also formalising a strengthened leadership team to support continued growth, operational excellence and innovation.
Botnen brings over a decade of senior leadership experience from the aquaculture industry, including executive roles at AKVA Group and Lingalaks. He has a strong track record in operational performance, strategic development and building high-performing teams.
“Having laid the groundwork for the next phase of Benchmark Genetics in collaboration with the leadership team, I am very pleased to hand over the reins to Kristian,” said Aleks Engel, partner at Novo Holdings and interim CEO of Benchmark Genetics, in a press release. “Kristian brings the leadership experience and industry insight needed to take the company to the next level. With the new leadership structure in place, we are well-positioned to strengthen our role as a leading global genetics partner to the aquaculture industry – with clear strategies for innovation and expansion.”
“It is inspiring to step into this role and meet so many skilled and committed colleagues,” added Kristian Botnen. “The expertise and pride in the work we do are clearly visible throughout the company. I look forward to spending time in our operations, getting to know people and processes, and working closely with the leadership team to deliver on our strategic ambitions.”
Strengthen leadership structure
To support the company’s next phase of development, Benchmark Genetics has implemented a strengthened leadership structure designed to improve strategic alignment, operational execution and customer focus. The new structure also ensures closer integration across production, commercial and R&D in different countries.
The Leadership Team will be comprised of:
- CEO: Kristian Botnen
- CFO: Jon Crowther - leading finance, business control and group reporting
- CSO: Dr Ross Houston - leading genetic R&D, breeding programs, product design, genomics and IP
- CCO: Kate Furhovden Stenerud - heading global sales and customer partnerships
- Head of Biology & Quality: Pablo Mazo - responsible for fish health, biology, quality and HSE
- Head of Global Production: Benedikt Hálfdanarson - leading salmon ova production in Norway and Iceland
- Marketing Director: Birgitte Sørheim - responsible for brand, marketing, external communications, and market data & analytics
- Head of Global HR: Julius Steinn Kristjánsson – leading global HR, talent development and internal communications
- Head of Digital Technologies: Bára Gunnlaugsdóttir – responsible for IT, development and digital infrastructure
- Senior Legal Counsel: Mette Remø - overseeing legal compliance and corporate governance
- Director External Services and International Strategies (reporting to CSO): Dr Morten Rye - leading global genetics advisory and genotyping services
- Head of Benchmark Genetics Shrimp: Bruno Decock – responsible for the shrimp breeding program and the commercialisation
- General Manager, Benchmark Genetics Chile: Juan Pablo Ramirez Torrealba– heading the Chilean business unit
