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Benchmark Genetics hires new RAS sales manager

In a bid to continue to strengthen its foothold as a genetics supplier to the land-based aquaculture market, Benchmark Genetics has appointed Harry Tziouvas – previously the technical sales manager for Benchmark Animal Health – as its new RAS sales manager.

Prior to joining Benchmark, Tziouvas was a senior biologist with the Scottish Salmon Company, responsible for the fish health management of all marine and freshwater sites.

In his new role in Benchmark Genetics, Tziouvas will use his experiences working with Atlantic salmon in northern Europe, and with sea bass and sea bream in the Mediterranean, a statement Benchmark said. He holds a BSc in Aquaculture and Fisheries Management from Greece, and an MSc in Aquatic Pathobiology from the University of Stirling.

“I am very pleased that Harry has accepted this exciting and ambitious opportunity,” said Geir Olav Melingen, commercial director at Benchmark Genetics. “RAS technology is complex and requires different skills and competences than traditional sea-cage farming systems, and I am sure that Harry has the right background to provide beneficial services to our customers within this sector.”

Tziouvas previously worked as a senior biologist with the Scottish Salmon Company. (Photo: Benchmark)

Harry Tziouvas sees aquaculture as one of the most promising sectors within food production. “With the rising demand for fish products and the decreasing catch from wild fish, aquaculture is gaining more importance”, he said.

Land-based farming with recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) represents a new way to farm fish. These culture systems provide an alternate approach that isolates fish from potentially sensitive marine ecosystems while applying measures to prevent environmental impacts such as the discharge of nutrients, escapees, and fish pathogens, Benchmark said in the statement.

“Benchmark Genetics has foreseen the trend of land-based RAS facilities and is investing in this sector with genetically adapted products and by creating new specific roles within the company,” the newly appointed RAS sales manager said.

Tziouvas will be based in the Benchmark Genetics offices in Inverness, Scotland, from where he will be servicing customers all over the world as well as assist in supporting the company’s U.K. customers, according to Benchmark.