Mowi’s director of communications for Canada, Scotland, and Ireland, had worked for the company for more than 30 years.
Roberts departure comes after a tenure that saw him holding a number of significant roles within the company and the wider aquaculture industry.
A passionate and effective defender of the industry, Robert’s career spans more than three decades in the aquaculture sector.
The former Mowi communications executive began his journey at Marine Harvest Canada in 1993, where he started as a salmon farmer and progressed to roles including Communications Manager and Director of Public Affairs.
During his time at Marine Harvest, he was instrumental in shaping strategic communications, community initiatives, stakeholder relations, and partnerships with First Nations.
In 2018, Roberts transitioned to Mowi Scotland and later took on a broader role overseeing communications for Mowi in Canada, Scotland, and Ireland. His work in these roles has been marked by his extensive experience in the field.
Roberts was elected as the chairperson of the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA) board in 2022, succeeding Jennifer Woodland.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the various career opportunities that the company has entrusted to me,” wrote Roberts in an issue of the company’s monthly newsletter, The Scoop.
“From leading the salmon aquaculture partnership with the Kitasoo Xai’xais First Nation in British Columbia during the first half of my career, to directing communications in Canada and Scotland over the past 15 years and having the opportunity to work with fabulously smart and caring people, it has all been very rewarding for me personally.”
Ben Hadfield, Mowi’s COO Farming (Scotland, Ireland, the Faroes & Canada East) praised Roberts’ leadership.
“His confident, passionate approach alongside strong respect from communities where salmon is produced has led to trust and a greater understanding of our business. I wish Ian all the best in his future endeavours and hope that he will remain closely involved in the aquaculture sector in some capacity,” wrote Hadfield.
Roberts holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies from Royal Roads University, completed between 2013 and 2015. He also studied Aquaculture at Sir Sandford Fleming College, earning a degree as an Aquaculture Technician.
The announcement of Roberts’ departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, which has seen him play a key role in the aquaculture industry across different regions. Mowi has not yet announced a successor or the reasons behind the decision.
Mowi was contacted for comment, but did not respond by the time of publication.