After a global search, WorldFish is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Nigel Preston as the new Director General of WorldFish. Preston, formerly of Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, will begin his new role in November 2015.
Preston brings more than 25 years of experience in coral reef ecology, fisheries ecology, sustainable aquaculture and the development and application of advanced genetics and nutritional technologies to enhance the productivity, sustainability and market quality of aquaculture.
In accepting his appointment Preston said: “WorldFish has an established and respected position in unlocking the potential in aquaculture and fisheries to address global food security and reduce poverty. I look forward to being able to build on the work of the excellent team of world class scientists to lead WorldFish and deliver impact and transformational improvements in developing countries.”
Outgoing Director General, Stephen Hall: “In a time of change for WorldFish, Nigel brings solid credibility in the areas of fisheries and aquaculture combined with a sharp instinct for management and fundraising. With a strong field of candidates I believe that the board has chosen with great foresight and I wish Nigel every success in his new role.”
While serving in multiple roles at CSIRO in Australia, Preston led a number of multidisciplinary research teams that have contributed to the economic and environmental sustainability of aquaculture industries in Australia, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Brazil. A central focus of his research has been the development of knowledge and technology to enable aquaculture industries to achieve an effective balance between economic benefits and conserving ecosystems.
Most recently, he served as Research Program Director for Integrated Sustainable Aquaculture at CSIRO. The program focused on transforming the productivity, profitability and sustainability of Australian and global aquaculture industries via integrated, collaborative research. The program currently has research partnerships and projects in 10 countries across the Indo-Pacific region.
Stephen Hall, who has served as WorldFish Director General since 2004, will end his tenure in November 2015.
For more information or to request an interview contact:
Toby Johnson, Senior Media Relations Manager
Mobile Tel: +60 (0) 175 124 606
Email: t.johnson@cgiar.org
Web: worldfishcenter.org
Photography: flickr.com/photos/theworldfishcenter/
About WorldFish
WorldFish is an international, nonprofit research organization that harnesses the potential of fisheries and aquaculture to reduce hunger and poverty. Globally, more than one billion poor people obtain most of their animal protein from fish and 800 million depend on fisheries and aquaculture for their livelihoods. WorldFish is a member of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future.
About CGIAR
CGIAR is a global research partnership for a food-secure future. Its science is carried out by the 15 research Centers that are members of the CGIAR Consortium in collaboration with hundreds of partners.