Chief Executive appointed to launch new Scottish salmon farming industry association

Sid Patten has been appointed as the Chief Executive to launch the new trade association for the Scottish salmon farming industry. The appointment, announced today 5th January, is an important step in achieving a single representative body for the industry. Mr Patten will direct the development of the enhanced Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation (SSPO), based in Perth, which will be responsible for representing the whole industry in political, regulatory and technical issues.

Formerly Managing Director of his own business consultancy and Chief Executive of the principal trade and employment federation representing the construction industry in Scotland, Mr Patten brings a wealth of experience in delivering strategic objectives on political and commercial issues, developing strategic partnerships and representing all sectors of a diverse industry.

He commented, “I am delighted to be appointed the first Chief Executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation, and to oversee the evolution of the organisation to one which represents all of this very important industry. The Scottish salmon industry contributes very significantly to Scotland’s economy, especially the Highlands and Islands and its highly prized place in the global market must be maintained and developed wherever possible.”

Lord Lindsay and Andy Jackson, joint chairmen of the Board overseeing this change, said, “We are very pleased to welcome Sid Patten to the industry at this exciting and challenging time. His enthusiasm and experience will be key to building positive relationships with a range of stakeholders and public bodies and will greatly enhance our focus on delivering sustainability, competitiveness and quality throughout the Scottish salmon industry.”

Brian Simpson, Chief Executive of Scottish Quality Salmon, will step down from his position as Scottish Quality Salmon evolves into the new SSPO.

Paying tribute to his contribution to the organisation for the past five years, Lord Lindsay commented, “Brian has been an exceptionally able Chief Executive in the face of a varied and demanding agenda. He has been a skilful advocate of the industry’s views achieving widespread cross party support and political respect. He also had notable success in developing the UK and international profile and marketing of Scottish Farmed Salmon, achieving the EU PGI status to set Scottish salmon alongside Parma Ham and Champagne and increasing sales of Label Rouge Scottish Salmon. We are very grateful for his significant contribution to the industry.”

The move to a single trade association comes after a long consultation period with the industry and its various representative bodies. Meetings held with industry in December indicate a very positive response to join the new SSPO and this will be the first time that a single organisation has represented Shetland, Orkney, Western Isles and the mainland.

Mr Patten’s appointment is effective from Monday 9th January, 2006.

END

Notes to Editors:

1. The Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation will be based in Perth and will also have an office in Shetland and work closely with the Western Isles.

Issued by Julie Edgar, Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation, 01738 587000 or 0789 987 5151 and Ken Hughes, Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation 01738 587006 or 07974 173739.