Navigating Risk for Sustainable Growth in Seafood – A Conversation with McKinsey’s Anders Milde Gjendemsjø
As the seafood industry faces an increasingly complex landscape of challenges and risks, understanding how to navigate these uncertainties while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability has never been more crucial.
In response to this, NASF has invited McKinsey to lead a thought-provoking session that delves into how the seafood industry and other industries are coping with these pressures—and whether today’s challenges could, in fact, pave the way for tomorrow’s opportunities.
To offer our delegates a glimpse into what to expect, we spoke with the Session Chair, Anders Milde Gjendemsjø. In this Q&A, Anders shares key insights and highlights the crucial topics that will shape the conversation, providing a preview of the discussions that promise to be both timely and impactful.
Q: Why is McKinsey hosting a session on risk management and sustainable growth in seafood at the North Atlantic Seafood Forum?
A: The seafood industry is at a turning point. Demand is rising, but so are challenges – cost inflation, supply chain disruptions, regulatory pressure, and changing consumer preferences. Our session will explore how industry leaders can proactively manage these risks while unlocking new growth opportunities. By bringing together diverse perspectives, we aim to provide both strategic insights and practical takeaways.
Q: What are the key themes in the session?
A: We will focus on three critical areas where the seafood industry faces both challenges and opportunities: market, regulatory, and capital. The goal is to provide executives with practical insights that help them navigate uncertainty and seize new growth opportunities.
To make the discussion concrete and engaging, we have structured the session around five key questions that address some of the industry’s most pressing issues. For example, we’ll explore whether seafood demand is growing or at risk, how land-based farming fits into the industry’s future, and if capital and talent are moving into – or away from – the sector. By framing the discussion around these questions, we aim to keep it highly relevant and actionable for the audience.
Additionally, we will present a fresh analysis from McKinsey on the state and outlook of the seafood industry. We hope this will provide new insights into long-term trends, investment dynamics, and the key forces shaping the industry’s future.
Q: The panel includes leaders from different parts of the industry. What perspectives do they bring?
A: The strength of this session lies in its diversity of perspectives. We have Paul Jewer (Highliner Foods) on shifting consumer demand, Anne Hvistendahl (DNB) on capital and investment, Tore Tønseth (Salmon Evolution) on land-based farming, Geir Lislerud (Mercuri Urval) on talent, and Ciara Jackson (Aon Agribusiness Leader) on risk. This mix ensures we cover the industry’s opportunities and challenges from multiple angles.
Q: The panel includes leaders from different parts of the industry. What perspectives do they bring?
A: The strength of this session lies in its diversity of perspectives. We have Paul Jewer (Highliner Foods) on shifting consumer demand, Anne Hvistendahl (DNB) on capital and investment, Tore Tønseth (Salmon Evolution) on land-based farming, Geir Lislerud (Mercuri Urval) on talent, and Ciara Jackson (Aon Agribusiness Leader) on risk. This mix ensures we cover the industry’s opportunities and challenges from multiple angles.
Q: What do you hope attendees will take away?
A: A clearer view of both risks and opportunities. The seafood industry often focuses on challenges, but companies that navigate them well will thrive. Whether it’s leveraging new technology, optimizing supply chains, or adapting to regulations, those who plan ahead will be best positioned for sustainable growth.
Q: Why should attendees prioritize this session?
A: This session balances strategic breadth with practical depth. We’re not just discussing trends – we’re diving into real, actionable insights. Whether you’re a producer, investor, regulator, or retailer, the discussion will be highly relevant. We look forward to seeing many of you there!
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