Hans Frode Kielland Asmyhr (47) has been appointed the new country representative for the Norwegian Seafood Council(NSC) in the UK. He will take up his role from 1 September.

Kielland Asmyhr has a background in PR and politics, most recently as a partner in Panor Public Affairs, and from 2013 to 2016 he was a director at Burston-Marsteller. From 2005 to 2013 he was MP for the Progress Party, including as a member of the standing committee for business and industry. Kielland Asmyhr holds a degree in law from the University of Oslo and participated in the Defence College program.

- It is important for the Norwegian Seafood Council to follow the Brexit process and what consequences it may have for Norwegian seafood exports to the UK and the EU. Hans Frode has considerable knowledge of the UK and EU questions in general, and combined with his strong communication skills, he will further help position the NSC on behalf of the Norwegian seafood industry, says Director of Global Operations in the Norwegian Seafood Council, Janne Log.

Britain is one of the most important export markets for Norwegian seafood and there is much interest in what happens with the marked after Brexit. Kielland Asmyhr’s background means he is familiar with political processes and has a solid network of contacts. His experience in PR and communications will be an important contribution to increase market share and preference of Norwegian seafood in the UK.

- I am very much looking forward to taking on this opportunity and working for one of Norway’s most important industries in a challenging market. Norwegians are very proud of their seafood and the industry will continue to strengthen its position around the world in years to come. I am very proud to be a part of this team, says Hans Frode Kielland Asmyhr.

The Norwegian Seafood Council has had a UK office for the past four years and Jack Robert Moeller, who held the position as country director, resigned earlier this year to focus on new opportunities in the prawn industry. He is happy the NCS is continuing its strong presence in the British market.