Benchmark Genetics is pleased to announce that Kristian Botnen has officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer. With his appointment, the company is formalising a strengthened leadership team designed to support continued growth, drive operational excellence, and accelerate innovation. This strategic move reflects Benchmark Genetics’ commitment to advancing its position as a global leader in aquaculture genetics.
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.
Strengthen leadership structure
To support the company’s next phase of development, Benchmark Genetics has formalised 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
“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,” says Aleks Engel, Partner at Novo Holdings and Interim CEO of Benchmark Genetics.
“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,” says 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.”
