As new director of business engagement, Sarah Riddle will lead a programme of engagement. But will also support the Scottish aquaculture sector through the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a press release, The Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) writes the it has hired the former UK sales manager at Scottish Sea Farms and commercial director at Aquascot Sarah Riddle as its new director of business engagement.
Riddle brings more than 17 years’ experience to the role. In her work with Northern Light Consulting – which will continue alongside the new role with SAIC – she has provided strategic support for organisations such as the Scottish Association of Marine Science.
“As director of business engagement, Riddle will help to address some of aquaculture’s biggest challenges by developing relationships in the sector and exploring opportunities for future innovation projects, which connect industry with academia,” SAIC wrote.
Drawing on an extensive network of contacts, from salmon farmers and processers to retailers and regulators, Riddle will lead a programme of engagement to support the innovation centre’s GBP 10 million Phase II strategy. While SAIC’s plans for the next five years include a focus on engaging with SMEs to drive innovation, the organisation wrote is also prioritising initiatives to support the Scottish aquaculture sector through the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I have worked in the industry for a number of years, and live in the Highlands with fish production on my doorstep, so this is a sector that I am truly fascinated by,” said Sarah Riddle. “Aquaculture offers fantastic opportunities for Scotland, and education and collaboration undoubtedly play a key role in its growth”.
Heather Jones, CEO of the Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre, added her expensive and contacts bring “a wealth of experience to the role” and that Riddle will play a crucial role “engaging with the aquaculture community and ultimately raising awareness of the important benefits the innovation centre brings to the sector.”
