Hannah Fennell has been appointed chief executive designate of the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association (SPFA), marking a significant leadership transition for the organisation.
Fennell, a well-known figure within the Scottish fishing industry, will take up the new role on 3 February. She will work closely with current chief executive Ian Gatt CBE over the next 12–18 months to ensure a smooth handover before formally assuming the chief executive position.
“Hannah’s appointment comes at a crucial time for pelagic fisheries as the sector faces a raft of challenges, from fisheries management to the loss of vital fishing grounds to offshore renewables,” said SPFA chair Richard Williamson.
Currently president of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, Fennell made history in 2023 as the organisation’s first female president, a role she continues to hold. She was chief executive of the Orkney Fisheries Association (OFA) from 2020 until September 2025, having previously worked as a fisheries researcher with both the OFA and the Marine Directorate.
She is also chair of UK Women in Fisheries, a trustee of Fishing into the Future and is in the final stages of completing a PhD focused on fisheries management.
“She will hit the ground running given her leadership experience and deep understanding of the industry,” said Williamson.
Williamson also paid tribute to outgoing chief executive Ian Gatt, who has led the SPFA for 16 years. “Ian has led our sector brilliantly during his tenure and we are delighted he will remain in post during the transition to support Hannah.”
Fennell said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of CEO Designate of the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association. My priority is to ensure the interests of pelagic fishermen are clearly and fully heard, while building on the excellent work already carried out by SPFA and its members.”
