Seafood Industry Australia has appointed Dr John Ackerman as its new Chief Executive Officer, commencing 9 March 2026.
John steps into the role following the departure of Veronica Papacosta and brings more than 30 years of experience across fisheries, aquaculture, trade and market access, agricultural diplomacy and national peak-body governance.
His appointment marks an important step forward for SIA as we continue to strengthen our position as the voice of Australian seafood and advance opportunities for the industry both domestically and internationally.
John has extensive experience across fisheries and aquaculture, supported by a PhD in Marine Biology and Aquaculture from James Cook University.