End of an era as Bracken to retire

Steve Bracken ONE of the pioneers of Scottish salmon farming has announced his retirement after 41 years in the industry. Steve Bracken, business support manager of Marine Harvest Scotland, will stand down at the end of July 2018.

Beginning his career as a fish farm assistant at Lochailort on May 23, 1977, Bracken is the longest serving employee at Marine Harvest.

He has held various management positions during his four decades of service, including a three-year posting in Sri Lanka.

He moved to his current communications role in 2000, where he has engaged with media, governments, customers, local communities, and NGOs. He is widely credited with being the Scottish industry’s leading spokesman.

At his 40-year service celebration last year, one colleague paid tribute to ‘one of the greatest ambassadors for the aquaculture sector’.

Ben Hadfield, managing director of Marine Harvest Scotland, said: ‘I want to personally thank Steve for his enormous contribution to Marine Harvest and for everything he’s done for the Scottish salmon farming sector. We wish you the best in retirement.’

Ian Roberts, director of public relations for Marine Harvest Canada, will take on the role of communications and business development director in Scotland.

A UK citizen, Roberts will begin his new job in May and will be based near Fort William. A replacement for his position in Canada is currently being sought.