Hendrix Genetics appoints Juan Pablo Barrales to lead global salmonids business

EUROPE – Hendrix Genetics has appointed Juan Pablo Barrales as Global Commercial Director of its Salmonids Business Unit, placing the Chile-based aquaculture executive in charge of the company’s Landcatch and Troutlodge products and services across more than 65 countries as the animal genetics company expands its focus on sustainable fish production and long-term industry resilience.

Barrales will oversee global sales, logistics and technical support activities for the salmonids division, which supplies genetic solutions to salmon and trout producers worldwide.

The appointment comes as Hendrix Genetics strengthens its position in the aquaculture sector through investments in breeding innovation, operational efficiency and sustainability initiatives designed to improve animal performance and production outcomes.

With more than 25 years of experience in Chile’s seafood and aquaculture industries, Barrales brings extensive expertise in commercial management, aquaculture operations and international business development.

According to Hendrix Genetics, his role will focus on strengthening customer relationships, enhancing operational efficiency and supporting the company’s continued growth in a rapidly evolving global aquaculture market.

The company said the appointment reflects its commitment to innovation, operational excellence and talent development across its global business units.

Aquaculture producers are increasingly seeking genetic solutions to improve fish growth, survival, robustness, and production efficiency while addressing challenges associated with disease pressure, environmental conditions, and resource utilisation.

As one of the world’s leading animal genetics companies, Hendrix Genetics operates breeding programmes across multiple livestock and aquaculture species, supplying genetic stock to producers in markets worldwide.

Sustainability strategy places genetics at the centre of food system resilience

The leadership appointment follows the publication of Hendrix Genetics’ new Sustainability Report, which outlines a strengthened long-term strategy focused on responsible animal breeding and sustainable food production systems.

The company said sustainability is now embedded across its breeding programmes, operations and partnerships through three strategic pillars: Care for Animals, Climate Resilience and Social Entrepreneurship.

“We operate at a point in the value chain where our choices have long-term consequences,” said Richard Maatman, Chief Executive Officer of Hendrix Genetics.

“This report shows how sustainability is embedded in our breeding programs, our operations and our partnerships.”

According to the company, genetics plays a central role in improving animal health, production efficiency and resilience while helping producers make better use of resources across different farming systems and geographies.

The report also provides greater transparency on environmental and social performance indicators, including greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, circularity initiatives, workforce development and responsible sourcing practices.

Naomi Duijvesteijn, Global Sustainability Director at Hendrix Genetics, said the company’s revised sustainability framework is intended to deliver measurable outcomes.

“Our strategy brings focus and accountability to the topics where we can make the greatest difference, for animals, for people and for the planet,” she said.

The combination of advanced breeding programmes, commercial expertise and sustainability-focused innovation is expected to play an increasingly important role in improving fish performance and supporting farm productivity.

This powerful mix will also be crucial in strengthening the resilience of global seafood production systems.

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