ORGANIC Sea Harvest (OSH) has welcomed a new Chief Operating Officer to their team as they pursue their vision of becoming the world’s leading organic salmon farmer.
Robert Wyvill joins the team shortly before OSH’s first harvest, expected in Spring 2021. Robert will be responsible for all OSH’s day-to-day operations, including ensuring OSH’s continued growth, negotiating with local suppliers and planning ahead. This new role will take over responsibilities currently covered by other team members and bring the amount of jobs directly created by OSH up to 13.
Robert, originally from North Uist, is currently the General Manager of Marine Operations Petuna Aquaculture in Tasmania, where he oversees 91 individuals. Robert has previously lived on Skye for five years and worked for Mowi in both Greshornish and Portnalong.
In 2014, Robert moved to Muck where he continued working for Mowi. Robert was responsible for the entire site, finishing the cycle with the lowest recorded mortality rate and the highest superior rating at harvest in Mowi history. Robert’s outstanding work helped position Muck as Mowi’s number one Scottish site – and the fifth best site worldwide in 2016. As a result of his achievements, Robert was nominated for the Manager of the Year Award.
Robert commented: “I’m very excited to return to the Highlands and have the chance to work with Organic Sea Harvest as they develop their vision for the future. Having worked for the past 24 years in aquaculture, I am looking forward to bringing my experience to the role as Organic Sea Harvest works to create an outstanding product and support the overall Scottish aquaculture industry.”
Ove Thu, CEO of OSH, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Robert to the team. Robert has previously been Site Manager at Muck and has extensive experience in operating exposed sites, so we are confident he will be an excellent addition to our sites at Culnacnoc and Invertote. We are glad to create sustainable jobs within the Isle of Skye community and look forward to seeing what Robert will bring to the OSH team.”
OSH aims to provide sustainable employment and strengthen their local ties. OSH currently employ 13 full-time staff members at two Skye sea sites, Culnacnoc and Invertote, and seven others attached to administrative functions. OSH also have partnerships with 31 Skye businesses. So far, OSH have invested more than £13 million in the local economy. Scottish fish farming directly employs 2,300 people, and, in 2018, the aquaculture sector supported 11,700 jobs in the Scottish economy. Therefore, it can be calculated that each job in Scottish aquaculture will indirectly create four other Scottish jobs.
OSH is committed to boosting Skye’s economy and community, strengthening local connections whenever possible. Creating the role of Chief Operating Officer will enable Robert to utilise his expertise and move back to his former Highland home. Robert, who is currently searching for a suitable place to live, commented: “I am delighted at the prospect of returning to my roots. I previously lived in Uig and Portree so I am looking forward to bringing my family with me, becoming part of the local community and making our home in this beautiful area.”
