Former Salmon Evolution chief joins Iceland’s GeoSalmo

Icelandic land-based salmon farmer GeoSalmo has appointed former Salmon Evolution chief Håkon André Berg as its new Executive Chairman.

At the same time, Berg (pictured) has invested in the company to become a significant shareholder.

GeoSalmo said Berg brings extensive experience to the company, having served as the CEO of Norwegian land-based salmon farmer Salmon Evolution from its early days until its first harvest, before leaving for family reasons in 2022.

Salmon Evolution is the largest land-based farmer in Norway and, like the GeoSalmo project, it operates a hybrid flow-through system.

Håkon Berg’s background also includes experience in private equity and business development within the seafood sector.

He has served on numerous boards and participated in building several companies. Most recently he held the position of CEO of Skeie teknologi, a Norwegian investment company.

Geo Salmo said that by joining the business Berg recognises the potential of the company and the Icelandic land-based salmon industry.

The company said: “Håkon’s experience will be a major asset to GeoSalmo in realizing its vision of building a high-tech land-based salmon farm near Þorlákshöfn, Iceland. As Executive Chairman he will work closely with GeoSalmo’s management to further develop the company’s plans and position it for success over the coming years.”

GeoSalmo CEO Jens Þórðarson said: “We are delighted to welcome Håkon to the company as Executive Chairman and shareholder. His unique success in developing Salmon Evolution into an industry leader will bring significant strength to our team as we embark on the next exciting phase of our journey. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for GeoSalmo.”

Håkon André Berg added: “I am very excited to take a key role in GeoSalmo and look forward to work closely with the company’s excellent management team on the execution of one of the most ambitious aquaculture projects globally.

“GeoSalmo’s approach to land-based farming is based on the same values and priorities that I consider to be fundamental, and I know that we have all the factors needed to create a success story.”