SSPO recruits new Head of Standards

by
editorial staff

Former Operations Manager (Aquaculture) for Lloyds Register Richard Beckett joins trade body.

In a press release, the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation (SSPO) writes that it has appointed Richard Beckett as Head of Standards to join the organisation’s Sustainability team.

Beckett has recently completed an MBA at the University of Stirling having taken a career break from Lloyds Register where he held the role of Operations Manager – Aquaculture.

This shortly follows the news that Tavish Scott, the former Scottish Government minister and Shetland MSP, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the organisation.

The SSPO wrote that new hire Beckett has experience in “standards, benchmarking, audits and governance as well as knowledge of the companies and organisations involved in Scottish salmon farming”.

Originally from Zimbabwe where he studied aquaculture and fisheries science at Rhodes University, Beckett relocated to the UK and worked in trout farming in North Yorkshire and tilapia farming in Lincolnshire.

Beckett said he was excited to be joining the SSPO during these “challenging times”.

“Now, more than ever, we need to demonstrate the sustainability and importance of our innovative industry and the contribution that local production makes to our food security ambitions. Progressive, robust production and supply-chain standards ensure that consumers and stakeholders can rest assured knowing that our producers retain their status as industry leaders,” he said.

SSPO Sustainability Director Anne Anderson said: “Richard has dedicated his entire career to furthering sustainable aquaculture around the globe and his on-farm experience, at all stages of the production process, will be invaluable in this role. His in-depth knowledge of certification and auditing systems will be key assets as the SSPO looks to further develop and strengthen our industry-leading Code of Good Practice (CoGP) standards.”

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