The Kingfish Company names new CEO

Buiks will bring more than 25 years of international leadership experience across the food, beverage, and nutrition sectors, with senior roles at PepsiCo, FrieslandCampina, and Kerry Group. His background includes full P&L ownership, with a consistent track record of delivering revenue growth, margin improvement, and operational transformation.

“Karl brings the strategic discipline, operational rigor, and brand-building expertise required to drive The Kingfish Company’s next phase of performance and growth,” said Jeroen Scheelbeek, Chair of the Supervisory Board for The Kingfish Company.

“I am honoured to join The Kingfish Company at such a pivotal moment,” Buiks said. “The company has strong fundamentals, a differentiated market position, and significant untapped potential. My focus will be on sharpening our strategy and driving disciplined growth that strengthens value for our shareholders, partners, and customers.”

“The company has successfully created a technology and business model that leads to a brighter future for our oceans and food systems at large” Buiks added.  “I look forward to being a part of it.”

Kingfish’s current CEO Vincent Erenst, who plans to retire at the end of this year, will continue to support the team and work closely with his successor to ensure a smooth transition, starting from 1 December 2025.

“The Supervisory Board wish to express its appreciation to Vincent for his outstanding leadership, which was central to delivering the Phase 2 expansion and driving substantial revenue growth,” Scheelbeek said. “These achievements have left Kingfish in a strong position for the future.”

Earlier this month, Kingfish announced that its third-quarter had been another period of sustained growth, with sales volume up 42% year-on-year to 728 tonnes. The average revenue per kg recovered to €14/kg, an improvement of €1.10/kg compared to Q1. Demand remained robust, particularly in the foodservice segment, while promotional activities in retail eased compared to earlier in the year.

As announced in September, the company has progressively scaled back its commercial efforts in the US fresh market and redirected its resources towards the European markets. The decision was made in light of further increased import tariffs, an unfavourable US$ exchange rate, and elevated logistics costs. 

The impact on Q3 sales was limited, but could lead to a temporary slower growth in Q4, it said.

Biomass growth reached 639 tonnes in Q3, up 12% year-on-year, supported by stable operations. Following the biomass optimisation plan implemented in the beginning of the year, farm operations have returned to normal with a standing biomass of 911 tonnes at quarter-end. 

The Q3 biological performance remained slightly below the levels achieved in 2023 and early 2024, but ongoing refinements in farm parameters and operational controls are expected to drive further improvements through the remainder of the year, it  advised.

“With a strong Q3 performance, Kingfish is well positioned to continue its growth trajectory, progressing toward full farm utilisation.”