Stewart Graham joins Salmon Scotland board
The body representing the Scottish salmon sector has added a new member from its supply chain to its board.
Aquaculture equipment veteran Stewart Graham was unanimously elected to the board of Salmon Scotland at its AGM in Edinburgh on 20th April.
Stewart Graham, owner and Managing Director of Gael Force Group, brings 40 years of experience in the aquaculture and marine sectors and is a well-respected figure in Scotland and internationally.
Over those four decades, he has led Gael Force on a growth journey as a prominent supplier and manufacturer of robust aquaculture equipment, technology, and services.
Stewart is also credited with leading the initiative in 2016 to formalise a Vision for Aquaculture to 2030, supported by the Scottish Government, and which led to the creation of an industry leadership group to drive progress in the sector.
He joins Hendrix Genetics’ Jarl van den Berg and Inverlussa’s Ben Wilson, who were appointed to the Salmon Scotland board in 2022, and the heads of the major Scottish salmon producers on the board of Salmon Scotland.
Having expanded its remit to include three membership categories tailored to aquaculture supply chain companies twelve months ago, Salmon Scotland has grown to around 50 members, representing every part of the sector.
Atholl Duncan, Chair of Salmon Scotland said, "Hundreds of businesses employ thousands of people to grow millions of high-protein, low-carbon meals, all working together to make Scottish salmon the UK’s favourite fish and the country’s number one food export.
Our farming companies couldn’t do what they do without the support of experienced supply chain companies like Gael Force, so I’m particularly pleased that Stewart will bring his knowledge, experience and perspective from establishing and running one of the leading supply chain companies in the Scottish aquaculture sector."
He continued, "Salmon Scotland exists to champion the entire farm-raised salmon sector in Scotland, from egg to plate.
This time last year we opened up membership to salmon egg producers, support vessel owners, net manufacturers and technology and innovation companies, right through to secondary processors and hauliers."
“We’ve been blown away by the response from our new members and one year on we can say that we represent every part of the supply chain in every part of Scotland.”
Commenting on this news, Stewart Graham said "I am thrilled to be joining the Salmon Scotland board and look forward to working with all those involved in supporting the future successes of this sector.”
He remarked, "Not only is Scottish salmon a tasty, healthy, and nutritious source of protein which is revered internationally – the farming of this incredible fish supports thousands of jobs and secures the livelihoods of many in our rural communities.
I’m both proud and passionate about supporting the continued achievements of our sector whether it be through the supply of robust equipment and technology or as a strong advocate for salmon farming."