Aquaculture scientist to shape English seafood future

FORMER Stirling University aquaculture scientist Neil Auchterlonie has been appointed the new chairman of Seafood 2040, the strategic body set up to shape the long term future of England’s fish related industry.

He takes over the role following the departure of the inaugural programme chairman, Alison Austin. Neil is a technical expert in fisheries, aquaculture and sustainable seafood and has worked previously as an advisor to industry, governments and NGOs.

Neil has a strong track record in managing aquaculture and fisheries science programmes in both public and private sector, specialising in commissioning, managing and reporting on science that addresses policy questions for both government and industry. He has held positions on a number of scientific and technical committees and has a strong interest in technology transfer within the seafood industry. Neil holds a BSc in Marine and Freshwater Biology from Stirling University, a MSc in Applied Fish Biology from the University of Plymouth, and a PhD in Aquaculture (halibut physiology) from Stirling University.

He has worked most recently as Technical Director for IFFO, The Marine Ingredients Organisation a trade body representing fishmeal and fish oil producers worldwide. As well as roles with Defra, Cefas and the Environment Agency, his background also includes several production and technical roles in aquaculture, and work as a consultant. Neil has served as a member of the Seafish Science Advisory Group and also contributed to Seafish Corporate Plans through the Sector Panels.

Marcus Coleman, CEO of Seafish, who announced today’s appointment, said:
\’COVID-19 has created an unprecedented set of challenges and Seafood 2040 will have an important role to play in helping the seafood industry in England to find its feet again. In light of this we are pleased to announce that Neil Auchterlonie has been appointed as the new chair for the Seafood 2040 programme. Neil brings a wealth of experience and knowledge which will be extremely valuable in shaping the support that Seafood 2040 can deliver for the industry. He has also previously served on the Seafood 2040 Government.\’
Auchterlonie, who takes up his post on May 1st, said he was pleased to be taking on the role was looking forward to leading the programme to develop the seafood industry in England.