Fish health veteran nets new role with Ocean Ecology

Marine environmental specialist Ocean Ecology has hired Richard Hopewell as principal fish health consultant at a new fish health unit the company is developing at the European Marine Science Park at Dunstaffnage, near Oban.

Hopewell has more than 30 years’ experience in the fish farming industry, having held fish health management positions with Marine Harvest (now Mowi) and Dawnfresh Farming, covering salmon and trout respectively.

Ocean Ecology, owned by Norway’s Åkerblå Group, said in a post on LinkedIn that Hopewell had an in-depth understanding of operational, environmental and production challenges, in addition to regulatory frameworks and had played a leading role in establishing and implementing best practices for fish health and in particular, welfare management.

Advice and training

He will be responsible for Ocean Ecology’s advisory and training services which aim to help customers to improve fish health, reduce mortality risks and increase efficiency. He will also play a role in facilitating knowledge exchange across the industry and supporting the development of best practices and procedures.

“I am delighted that Richard shares our vision and has come on board for this exciting journey,” said Jørgen Vatn, who is leading the fish health unit at Ocean Ecology.

“As part of the Åkerblå Group, we already have a wealth of fish health knowledge and experience in Norway but we wish to combine the competencies and expertise of the two regions so that we can build Scotland’s leading fish health unit.

“Richard brings with him the skills and experience to help us achieve that. He will play a decisive role in developing this unit to ensure that we deliver true value to our customers.”