Fish vet Alison Brough was named Rising Star, while Head of Sustainability and Development Anne Anderson was one of three senior sector figures recognised with an Outstanding Contribution Award.
When searching for their Rising Star of 2024, the judges were looking for someone who has demonstrated ‘outstanding dedication, leadership, and innovation in their early to mid-career stages, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Scottish aquaculture industry.’
Not only has Brough, who joined Scottish Sea Farms just two years ago, immersed herself in all things fish health to deliver real benefits out on farm, but she has also emerged as an inspiring ambassador for the wider sector with roles on the Fish Vet Society and Young Aquaculture Society, amongst other initiatives.
When asked what motivated her to become involved in aquaculture, Brough said: ‘After graduating from Liverpool University School of Veterinary Science in 2017, I worked in farm animal practice so had experience of herd health planning and strategic veterinary involvement but had never considered aquaculture until I saw the Scottish Sea Farms advert.
‘It’s such a new and innovative sector and when I spoke to people about it, they said it’s a great time to be part of it, with so many changes happening.
‘I’m from a farming background so food production means a lot to me, and aquaculture has huge potential when it comes to producing sustainable food. That was the biggest draw for me.’
In the Outstanding Contribution category, such was the strength of nominations that the judges took the decision to award three senior sector figures: Scottish Sea Farms’ Anne Anderson, along with Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) CEO Heather Jones and Director of Innovation & Engagement Sarah Riddle.
Commenting on her WiSA win, Anderson said: ‘Scottish farmed salmon is a sector I’m hugely passionately about, and I have put a lot on the line professionally to champion it as a sustainable food source.
‘I’m realistic, though, that the journey to ensuring those green credentials are better understood will be long, with progress coming in small steps, requiring focus and resilience. So, learning that my peers see a positive difference from the work I’m involved in is a welcome boost and a further reminder of why I’m doing what I do.’
To read the full list of 2024 WiSA Award winners, and their interviews, click here.