New finance chief for Benchmark Genetics
Thomas Samdal joined the company at the start of the month
Samdal took up the position on April 1 and is part of the company's executive management. He takes over the role from Jon Crowther, who will retire after a short transition period, Benchmark Genetics writes in a press release.
Samdal comes from the position as CFO at the research institute NORCE, where he had overall responsibility for the group's finance function, including reporting, financing, sustainability reporting and several other business functions.
He has previously held CFO roles in several companies, as well as experience from investment activities and auditing.
Samdal holds a Master of Science in Economics from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) and a Master of Science in Accounting and Auditing. With nearly 20 years of experience in auditing, corporate finance and management of finance functions, Samdal brings a solid combination of financial expertise and operational understanding.
He has extensive experience from private equity (PE), both as an investment manager and as CFO in PE-owned companies.
A good fit
"We are very pleased to have Thomas join the team. He has a strong professional profile and broad experience from both commercial companies and research environments. This is a combination that fits very well for Benchmark Genetics, where we are building on our position as a global leader in aquaculture genetics. His ability to connect strategy and operational execution will be important in the further development of the company," said chief executive Kristian Botnen.
Samdal looks forward to contributing to Benchmark Genetics' further development as an independent company under Novo Holdings.
“Benchmark Genetics plays a central role in the global aquaculture value chain, where genetics is the starting point for both sustainability and profitability. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a more efficient and sustainable food system,” said Samdal.
"At the same time, it is very exciting to be part of the company's next phase, where we will further develop and scale the business. An important part of my role will be to ensure that the finance function actively supports the core business and facilitates the organisation's success in achieving its strategic goals."