The Marine Biological Association is delighted to welcome Sarah Holmyard to our Board of Trustees.
Sarah is a senior leader in the UK and international seafood sector with over 20 years’ experience spanning fisheries, aquaculture, marketing, and sustainability. Ocean stewardship has been at the heart of her career. As Commercial Director of Offshore Shellfish, the UK’s first large-scale offshore mussel farm, Sarah has helped develop a pioneering aquaculture site that doubles as a platform for marine biological research; strengthening the evidence base for sustainable aquaculture.
Alongside her commercial work, Sarah holds several governance and advisory roles, including Board Director of Seafish, Director of UK Women in Fisheries, and member of Devon & Severn IFCA. She chairs the Southwest Regional Advisory Group, bringing together industry stakeholders to address challenges and support sustainable development. Her leadership is complemented by her role as a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers.
Sarah brings extensive expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, alongside strong skills in business development and international market growth. Known for clear communication and constructive dialogue, she connects industry, policy, and research to drive positive change.
Our Trustees are crucial to maintaining high standards of governance and shaping the long-term vision and priorities of the charity. Sarah joins our diverse Board of Trustees, helping us to deepen our impact and public leadership through her commitment to marine sustainability and her passion for connecting science with industry and policy.
Professor Willie Wilson, Chief Executive at the MBA, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Sarah to our Board of Trustees. Her ability to connect industry, policy, and research aligns perfectly with the MBA’s vision, and we look forward to working with her to shape a sustainable future for our ocean.”
Professor Willie Wilson, Chief Executive, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Sarah to our Board of Trustees. Her ability to connect industry, policy, and research aligns perfectly with our mission at a time where it is as critical as ever. We are looking forward to working with her as we embark on our Strategy150 that charts a course towards 150 years of the MBA.”

The MBA welcomes our newest Trustee. c. Sarah Holmyard