The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Seafood Scotland chief stepping down to take up UK role
The operator has said previously a timetable for submissions had been set and an update would be given by June 4. The chief executive of trade body Seafood Scotland, Libby Woodhatch, is to move to a UK role with Seafish as its newly-created head of advocacy.
Ms Woodhatch has led Seafood Scotland – the delivery partner for Seafish north of the border– for nine years and in that time overseen the development of a wide range of services to support the country’s fish and shellfish producers.
She has also secured millions of pounds worth of European and other funding to help Scottish seafood exports remain competitive in a fast-growing global market.
In addition, she has contributed substantially to efforts to get organisations in and outside the industry working together for the good of Scottish seafood, and helped raise awareness of some of its key issues.
Among many innovations during her time at the helm was the creation of a Scottish seafood bar at an industry showcase in Brussels. This has become a popular feature of the Scottish pavilion at the annual event, the biggest of its kind.
The new role has been created in response to an industry-wide consultation by Seafish and will see her becomeavital linkbetween industry, politicians and other major players for the sector.
She will leave her current post at the end of June before starting as head of advocacy in September.
A spokeswoman said yesterday Seafood Scotland would soon begin discussions aimed at finding a replacement.
Seafood Scotland chairman Iain Macsween said: “We are disappointed that Libby is moving and recognise the tremendous work she has undertaken for the Scottish seafood sector.
“We will miss her input, as will the entire industry, but wish her well for the future within the newly structured Seafish."
Seafish chief executive Paul Williams said: “The position reflects industry’s wishes for us to focus on working closely with them and building strong ties that will endure as we kickstart our new strategy and work programmes.”