Sanford Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sanford has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, human resources, and business unit management.

Driven by a commitment to sustainable practices, Sanford is dedicated to pioneering advancements in seafood cultivation and harvesting, ensuring a vital supply of premium products to global markets.

Leadership Roles at Sanford

  • President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer - Henry Pearsall
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Donnisha Sanford
  • Chief Financial Officer - Beverly Michael
  • Acting Chief Operating Officer - Peter Young
  • Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit - Debra Lumsden
  • 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 the company's global market presence, ensuring alignment with long-term objectives for both the Wildcatch and Aquaculture segments. This leadership role involves navigating complex international trade dynamics across North America, Europe, China, and other key Asian markets. By driving strategic initiatives, Henry Pearsall ensures the company's continued expansion and market leadership in the seafood industry. The Chairman's responsibilities include fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and guiding the board's strategic direction. Pearsall's executive oversight extends to all facets of the business, from sustainable sourcing to global distribution networks, solidifying Sanford's position as a premier seafood provider.

    Donnisha Sanford - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Donnisha Sanford, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Sanford, establishes the foundational vision and operational ethos for the company. Sanford drives the strategic direction for both the Wildcatch and Aquaculture divisions, focusing on innovation in farming and harvesting techniques. This executive leadership ensures the company's commitment to sustainability is integrated across all operations, from inshore and deepwater fish species to mussel and salmon cultivation. Donnisha Sanford's role involves cultivating a culture of excellence and responsibility throughout the organization, impacting operations across New Zealand, Australia, and international markets. The Founder's influence is critical in maintaining the company's heritage while adapting to evolving global demands for responsibly sourced seafood. Sanford's strategic guidance shapes the company's approach to processing, storing, and marketing its diverse product portfolio.

    Beverly Michael - Chief Financial Officer

    Beverly Michael, the Chief Financial Officer at Sanford, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Michael directs all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation across the Wildcatch and Aquaculture segments. This executive function is crucial for supporting Sanford's extensive global operations spanning New Zealand, Australia, North America, Europe, and Asia. By optimizing financial performance, Beverly Michael ensures the company can sustain its complex supply chain, from farming and harvesting to processing and marketing a wide array of seafood products. The CFO's oversight extends to risk management and investor relations, safeguarding the company's financial stability. Michael's strategic financial leadership underpins Sanford's capacity for continued growth and investment in sustainable seafood practices.
    Beverly Michael

    Peter Young - Acting Chief Operating Officer

    Peter Young, the Acting Chief Operating Officer at Sanford, oversees the day-to-day operational execution across the company's diverse business units. Young directs the integration of farming, harvesting, and processing activities for both Wildcatch and Aquaculture segments, ensuring efficiency and quality from source to market. This critical role supports Sanford's extensive operational footprint across New Zealand, Australia, North America, Europe, and various Asian markets. By streamlining operational workflows, Peter Young enhances the company's ability to manage its broad portfolio of seafood products, including fish species and farmed mussels and salmon. The Acting COO's focus is on optimizing resource utilization and driving operational excellence throughout the global supply chain. Young's leadership ensures the seamless functioning of Sanford's processing, storage, and marketing functions.

    Debra Lumsden - Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit

    Debra Lumsden, the Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit at Sanford, leads human capital strategy and talent management specifically for the mussel operations. Lumsden directs initiatives focused on employee engagement, development, and organizational culture within the EGM Mussels Business Unit, ensuring alignment with Sanford's broader corporate objectives. This specialized role is vital for supporting the unique demands of mussel farming, harvesting, and processing, contributing to the overall success of Sanford's aquaculture segment. Debra Lumsden's expertise ensures a skilled and motivated workforce dedicated to producing high-quality Greenshell mussels and other related products. The Chief People Officer's strategic focus on talent acquisition and retention is fundamental to the sustained growth and operational efficiency of this key business unit, impacting Sanford's market position globally.

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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 Donnisha Sanford (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Beverly Michael (Chief Financial 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), Donnisha Sanford (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Beverly Michael (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sanford have?
    Sanford has 5 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, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Acting Chief Operating Officer, Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit.