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Former net pen company exec moves to Viking Aqua

Viking Aqua recently named Even Hopland as director of business development.

Hopeland comes to the Norwegian recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) company after leaving Sekkingstad, one of Norway’s oldest net pen fish farm company. Hopland said one of the factors that attracted him to Viking Aqua was the company’s use of aquaculture technology that “combines the lowest emissions for food production with good returns for investors.”

“Viking Aqua is the most visionary project for land-based salmon farming. They have assembled a highly competent team to realize the plans,” Hopland said. “It was not a difficult choice to make; I want to be a part of this.”

Viking Aqua prides itself on its “Eco-Bubble Design” for RAS production of salmon. The concept involves using design, management and operation of the facility to ensure highest standards of fish welfare and protection from viruses and bacteria, chemicals and plastics now prevalent in the natural environment.

Prior to becoming Sekkingstad’s chief executive officer in 2019, Hopland had been responsible for sales, slaughter and processing units within the company, both in Norway and Denmark. He also held a variety of board positions in the seafood industry.

“We greatly appreciate the trust that Even shows the company, and with him on board, he complements the already strong team in place. Even has broad and versatile experience, but particularly important for us is his experience with the downstream part of the value chain,” said Ingar Valvik, CEO of Viking Aqua.