Sanford Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sanford has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to sustainable practices, Sanford is dedicated to pioneering advancements in seafood farming and harvesting, ensuring a robust supply of high-quality products across global markets.

Leadership Roles at Sanford

  • President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer - Henry Pearsall
  • Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant - Michelle Thompson
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Donnisha Sanford
  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Alston
  • Acting Chief Operating Officer - Peter Young
  • President - Henry Sanford
  • Henry Pearsall - President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

    Henry Pearsall, the President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Sanford, directs the overarching corporate strategy and governance. Pearsall oversees all major business units, ensuring alignment with the company's mission of sustainable seafood production. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team in navigating complex market dynamics across New Zealand, Australia, North America, Europe, and Asia. By fostering innovation in both wildcatch and aquaculture operations, Henry Pearsall drives the company's expansion and commitment to quality. The Chairman's responsibilities include maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders and the board, ensuring long-term financial health and operational excellence. Pearsall's strategic vision shapes Sanford's global presence and market impact.

    Michelle Thompson - Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant

    Michelle Thompson, the Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant at Sanford, spearheads strategic initiatives focused on operational efficiency and market development. Thompson's dual role emphasizes enhancing the company's educational outreach regarding sustainable seafood practices while driving core business objectives. This involves optimizing harvesting and processing methods across both wildcatch and aquaculture segments. Overseeing key market regions including North America, Europe, and Asia, Michelle Thompson ensures that Sanford's product offerings meet diverse consumer demands and regulatory standards. The Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant's focus extends to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing throughout the organization. Thompson's leadership directly supports Sanford's commitment to delivering high-quality seafood products globally.

    Donnisha Sanford - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Donnisha Sanford, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Sanford, establishes the foundational principles and long-term vision for the company's seafood operations. Sanford's entrepreneurial spirit guides the strategic direction of both wildcatch and aquaculture segments, ensuring innovation in farming, harvesting, and processing. This leadership position involves setting ambitious goals for market penetration across international territories, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer's commitment to quality and sustainability permeates all aspects of the business. Donnisha Sanford drives the company's mission to provide premium seafood products while upholding rigorous environmental standards. Sanford's influence is critical in shaping Sanford's enduring legacy and market leadership.

    Paul Alston - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Alston, the Chief Financial Officer at Sanford, manages the company's financial health and strategic investment planning. Alston oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting across Sanford's global presence in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation for both wildcatch and aquaculture segments, ensuring profitability and sustainable growth. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in securing funding for expansion initiatives and managing financial risks associated with international markets. Paul Alston's strategic financial guidance supports Sanford's commitment to delivering high-quality seafood products while maintaining robust economic performance. Alston ensures fiscal discipline across all operational facets.

    Peter Young - Acting Chief Operating Officer

    Peter Young, the Acting Chief Operating Officer at Sanford, directs the day-to-day operational execution across the company's diverse seafood business. Young oversees the efficiency of harvesting, processing, and storage activities for both wildcatch and aquaculture segments, ensuring product quality and timely delivery to markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Asia. This leadership role involves optimizing supply chain logistics and implementing best practices in farming and fishing operations. The Acting Chief Operating Officer's focus is on driving operational excellence and cost-effectiveness throughout the organization. Peter Young's management ensures that Sanford consistently meets its production targets and maintains its reputation for high-quality seafood. Young's efforts enhance overall operational performance.

    Henry Sanford - President

    Henry Sanford, the President at Sanford, leads strategic initiatives focused on market expansion and product development within the global seafood industry. Sanford's leadership guides the company's engagement in both wildcatch and aquaculture operations, ensuring alignment with Sanford's core mission of providing premium seafood. This role involves fostering strong relationships with international partners and overseeing market penetration strategies across key regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia. The President's vision is instrumental in driving innovation and maintaining Sanford's competitive edge. Henry Sanford's dedication to operational excellence and sustainable practices underpins the company's continued success and global reach. Sanford's influence shapes corporate direction.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sanford Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Sanford?
    Sanford is led by Henry Pearsall (President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michelle Thompson (Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant) and Donnisha Sanford (Founder & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Sanford’s executive team?
    The executive team of Sanford includes leaders such as Henry Pearsall (President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer), Michelle Thompson (Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant), Donnisha Sanford (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sanford have?
    Sanford has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Sanford’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Sanford includes roles such as President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Education Consultant, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Acting Chief Operating Officer.