FishWise CEO Tobias Aguirre stepping down at the end of November

Tobias Aguirre, the chief executive officer of Santa Cruz, California, U.S.A.-based sustainable seafood consultancy FishWise, will leave the nonprofit on 30 November, according to the organization.

Over the last 17 years under Aguirre’s leadership, FishWise expanded from a small grassroots organization to a consultancy with global reach and industry partners that include Albertsons Companies, Target, and Hy-Vee – and the organization's more than 460 suppliers in more than 50 countries.

“Under Tobias’ leadership, FishWise established groundbreaking business partnerships, realized international prominence via the Seafood Alliance for Legality and Traceability (SALT), and now guides the seafood industry in social responsibility with the Roadmap for Improving Seafood Ethics (RISE). And we have launched a comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion program to be embedded in all that FishWise does.” FishWise Board of Directors Chair George Leonard said. “On behalf of the FishWise Board of Directors and staff, I am deeply grateful for Tobias’ contributions and look forward to what comes next for him.”

Aguirre also had an impact on sustainable seafood beyond Fishwise, serving on the board of directors for the Conservation Alliance for Seafood Solutions and as an advisor to Fair Trade USA, International Seafood Sustainability Foundation, Food Marketing Institute, and Sea Pact.

“After 17 years with FishWise, we have accomplished more than I imagined possible. I believe that now is the time to make room for a new leader to take FishWise's mission and achieve an even greater impact,” Aguirre said. “FishWise’s staff, leadership team, and board of directors have the vision and know-how to help companies and governments make progress toward environmental sustainability and social responsibility in the seafood sector. After some time to reflect and recharge, I look forward to exploring new purpose-driven opportunities for creating good in the world.”

FishWise has posted an opening for an interim executive director position and is expected to commence a national recruitment process for a new leader for the organization.

“Our partnerships, expertise, and tools will continue to transform the seafood industry, as our guidance is embedded in seafood supply chains globally,” FishWise Board Member Gideon Shaanan said.

Photo courtesy of FishWise