Salmon Scotland brings Gael Force boss on board

The body representing the Scottish salmon sector has added a new member from its supply chain to its board.

Stewart Graham, managing director of Scottish-owned Gael Force, was unanimously elected to the board of Salmon Scotland at its annual general meeting in Edinburgh today.

Graham, founder of the Inverness-based Gael Force Group, brings 40 years of experience in the aquaculture and marine sectors. During that time, he has grown Gael Force into a prominent supplier and manufacturer of aquaculture equipment, technology, and services.

He is also credited with leading the initiative in 2016 to formalise a Vision for Aquaculture to 2030, supported by the Scottish Government, and which led to the creation of an industry leadership group to drive progress in the sector.

Wider remit

He joins Jarl van den Berg from salmon ova supplier Hendrix Genetics, and Ben Wilson, of Inverlussa Marine Services, who were appointed to the Salmon Scotland board in 2022, and the heads of the major Scottish salmon producers on the board of Salmon Scotland.

Having expanded its remit to include three membership categories tailored to aquaculture supply chain companies 12 months ago, Salmon Scotland now has around 50 members, representing every part of the sector.

Salmon Scotland chair Atholl Duncan said: “Our farming companies couldn’t do what they do without the support of experienced supply chain companies like Gael Force, so I’m particularly pleased that Stewart will bring his knowledge, experience, and perspective from establishing and running one of the leading supply chain companies in the Scottish aquaculture sector.

“This time last year we opened membership to salmon egg producers, support vessel owners, net manufacturers, and technology and innovation companies, right through to secondary processors and hauliers.

Blown away

“We’ve been blown away by the response from our new members and one year on we can say that we represent every part of the supply chain in every part of Scotland.”

Graham, who started his business career as a teenager making creels in a small business unit in Stornoway, Lewis, in 1983, said salmon farming supports thousands of jobs and secures the livelihoods of many in our rural communities.

“I’m both proud and passionate about supporting the continued achievements of our sector whether it be through the supply of robust equipment and technology or as a strong advocate for salmon farming.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Salmon Scotland board and look forward to working with all those involved in supporting the future successes of this sector.”