Philippe Léger will hand over his role as Managing Director of Benchmark’s Advanced Nutrition and CEO of INVE Aquaculture to Athene Blakeman who joined Benchmark in 2014 as Group Legal Counsel. Just now turning 65, Philippe decided to work part-time supporting the development and execution of Benchmark’s key strategic initiatives and this way continue to play an integral role in the future growth and development of Benchmark.
Philippe Léger said that “during my time as CEO I have had the privilege of working with truly talented, innovative and inspiring people across the global aquaculture industry. I am thrilled Athene is taking on my responsibilities as CEO. She is a highly intelligent, respected and ambitious leader. I have every confidence she will continue to build on our achievements throughout the next phase of growth and I look forward to working with her as I continue to lead the Benchmark Strategy Execution and Business Growth team supporting the Groups’ key strategic priorities and new business developments.”
Philippe has worked at INVE since it was established in 1983 after he signed up to do a PhD with Patrick Sorgeloos (known as the ‘Father of Artemia’), who set up a spin-off company from the University of Ghent. Since then, Philippe has been fundamental in the development, growth and impact of INVE’s products, people and services. He is recognized across the global aquaculture industry for his creative ability and industry leadership.
Athene joined Benchmark in 2014 as Group Legal Counsel and has gained in-depth knowledge and insight across the group, being a member of Benchmark’s PLC and Operations Boards, as well as each of the divisional boards, including Advanced Nutrition. She said that “the success Philippe has experienced building INVE Aquaculture into the company it is today is testament to his dedication, drive and passion for aquaculture. I look forward to working closely with him and our teams across the business in the coming months to ensure the smoothest possible transition for our customers and partners.”
Born from a spin-off of Ghent University in 1983, INVE - Benchmark Advanced Nutrition - recently celebrated 35 years of service to global aquaculture. Today the company has achieved 24% market share in the global shrimp and marine fish hatchery nutrition segment and is present in more than 70 countries. The company also defined the standards for Artemia still being applied today by the industry.
