Salmon farming’s trade organisation is to bid farewell to Michael Gibson CBE and welcome a new Chairman, Professor Phil Thomas.
Michael Gibson CBE has stepped down as Non-Executive Chairman of Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation (SSPO) after almost two years in the post due to an increased workload and an expanding role at the Scottish Association of Marine Science, the charity with responsibility for promoting, delivering and supporting high-quality independent research and education in the marine environment.
Whilst in the part-time position with SSPO, Mr Gibson has been influential in ensuring that the salmon farming industry has received recognition for its vital contribution to the social, economic and nutritional wellbeing of Scotland within local and national governments as well as the various regulators and stakeholders.
Mr Gibson said: “My involvement with the salmon sector has reinforced in me its importance to Scotland and I shall continue to make sure it is properly recognised by a wide group that can influence its future development.”
Professor Phil Thomas will take up the position with immediate effect.
Professor Thomas said: “I am delighted at the prospect of having an increased involvement with the salmon industry. Aquaculture makes such a huge contribution to Scotland's food sector and to the rural economy – and I have had a long-standing personal and professional interest and involvement in both.”
Professor Thomas's career has included a range of experience in research, technology transfer, education, management and consultancy. He is co-author of several books and over 200 other publications.
