Anderson leaves SSC in Bakkafrost shake-up

CRAIG Anderson, CEO of the Scottish Salmon Company for the past six years, is to stand down, following Bakkafrost’s recent purchase of the firm.

He will be replaced by the managing director of the Faroese producer’s Havsbrun site, Odd Eliasen, effective immediately.

Eliasen has broad experience in the fish farming industry and has been active in restructuring fish farming in the Faroes, holding various board positions in the industry, said the Scottish Salmon Company.

Anderson is credited with creating value for shareholders, and the board thanked him for his ‘valued contribution’ to the business.

He sold his own shares, valued at more than £1 million, to Bakkafrost as part of the sale of the SSC.

Following the successful integration into Bakkafrost, SSC ‘will be better placed to pursue further growth opportunities by leveraging its leading position in the Scottish salmon sector and its established premium brands’, the company said.

Anderson said: ‘Following the completion of the acquisition of SSC, Bakkafrost will take leadership of the company to deliver the growth vision of the enlarged group.

‘I am proud of the entire SSC team and the success that we collectively achieved. It has been a pleasure being the driving force in ensuring that throughout the world, the value of Scottish provenance continues to be recognised.’

Odd Eliasen added: ‘Craig’s reputation within SSC and the industry is one of a strong leader with a firm commitment to the company’s stakeholders.

‘I look forward to building on his legacy and maintaining the growth momentum of the company.

‘My near term objective will be to ensure a smooth integration of the business so the combined company can deliver the strategic synergies that underpinned the rationale for the acquisition.’