• Kenneth Tay is a veteran of the shrimp industry with more than 18 years of experience for shrimp broodstock in Asia
Benchmark Genetics recently announced the appointment of Kenneth Tay as Senior Advisor, Business & Strategy Development, with a focus on supporting the company’s expanding shrimp genetics business globally. Tay is a veteran of the shrimp industry with more than 18 years of experience in marketing and business development for shrimp broodstock in Asia.
At the arrival at the company, Tay said: “The shrimp industry is moving towards higher efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in the face of environmental and disease challenges. Farmers increasingly seek genetics that perform well in diverse and changing conditions. Benchmark Genetics is well positioned to play a pivotal role by providing high-quality, well-adapted shrimp genetics that improve productivity, survival, and profitability, while helping the industry adapt to local and global changes.”
He co-founded and led Shrimp Improvement Systems Singapore (SIS) between 2004 and 2010 and subsequently served as Director of Shrimp Improvement Systems Group until 2023. SIS is recognised as the world’s leading provider of Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) Penaeus vannamei shrimp broodstock, with facilities in Florida and Hawaii. Tay was instrumental in establishing SIS’s Broodstock Multiplication Centre in Singapore and spearheaded the company’s expansion into key Asian markets, including China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Korea.
Creating Real Value for Local Industries
For the company, Tay’s appointment strengthens Benchmark Genetics’ strategic capabilities in shrimp, complementing its established position as a global leader in salmon genetics. Over the last six years, Benchmark has established a strong network of hatchery and farmer customers across Asia, Latin America, and Europe, building credibility and reach that will further support the growth of the shrimp business.
“My passion has always been to work with companies that drive innovation in shrimp genetics. Benchmark Genetics offers me the opportunity to explore new markets and develop tailored solutions for hatcheries and farmers, creating real value for local industries. I look forward to contributing to the company’s efforts to deliver localised solutions that enhance economies of scale and profitability for farmers and business owners,” Tay finished.
New Lead for the Next Phase of Growth and Innovation
Some days before the announcement, Benchmark Genetics brought more news: the appointment of Kristian Botnen as Chief Executive Officer starting November 3rd. Botnen brings extensive leadership experience from the aquaculture industry, coupled with a strong background in finance and operational management. According to the company, he will lead Benchmark Genetics into its next phase of growth and innovation as the company continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in aquaculture genetics.
“I am honored to join Benchmark Genetics at such an exciting time for the company and the industry. Benchmark Genetics has an exceptional team, cutting-edge science, and a strong global footprint. I look forward to building on this foundation to deliver even greater value to our customers, enhance sustainability across aquaculture, and strengthen our role as a trusted partner to the industry,” Botnen said after announcement.
Botnen joins from AKVA Group, a global leader in aquaculture technology solutions, where he has served as Chief Operating Officer since 2022. Prior to this, he served as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Lingalaks, a major Norwegian fish farming company. He started his career building a solid foundation in finance and banking before moving into operational and general management roles in aquaculture.
Benchmark Genetics reported that, throughout his career, Botnen has consistently delivered operational excellence, exceeded financial and sustainability goals, while building high-performing teams. He holds a Master of Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration, both from BI Norwegian Business School in Norway.
