Sanford Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sanford has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, organizational development, operational management, and human resources.

Committed to sustainable seafood excellence, Sanford delivers premium wildcatch and aquaculture products to global markets while maintaining rigorous environmental standards across all international operations.

Leadership Roles at Sanford

  • President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer - Henry Pearsall
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Donnisha Sanford
  • 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 for wildcatch and aquaculture segments. Pearsall manages the integration of deepwater fishing operations with international marketing initiatives across Asia and the Middle East. By aligning board objectives with long-term growth targets, the President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer ensures the company maintains a competitive edge in the global seafood industry. Henry Pearsall oversees the expansion of market reach into North America and Europe, focusing on the distribution of diverse species like antarctic toothfish and hoki. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of supply chain efficiency and resource management. Through strategic oversight of harvesting processes, the President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable profitability. Pearsall secures the financial health of the organization by balancing operational demands with the complex regulatory requirements inherent in international seafood trade.

    Donnisha Sanford - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Donnisha Sanford, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Sanford, architects the foundational vision and long-term mission for the seafood enterprise. Sanford drives the innovation agenda, focusing on the development of advanced processing techniques for greenshell mussels and king salmon. As the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Sanford maintains direct engagement with key stakeholders to ensure the company upholds the legacy of quality established since 1881. This role involves shaping the corporate culture and guiding the executive team toward achieving excellence in both inshore and deepwater fishing sectors. Donnisha Sanford monitors the performance of global distribution channels, ensuring that products reach markets in Japan, South Korea, and Africa with optimal freshness. By fostering strategic partnerships, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer expands the footprint of the organization. Sanford prioritizes the implementation of sustainable harvesting practices, ensuring the long-term viability of marine resources while meeting the demands of international consumers.

    Peter Young - Acting Chief Operating Officer

    Peter Young, the Acting Chief Operating Officer at Sanford, manages the daily execution of harvesting, storage, and processing logistics for all seafood products. Young optimizes the operational flow within the Wildcatch segment, ensuring that species like arrow squid and orange roughy move efficiently from sea to market. As the Acting Chief Operating Officer, Young coordinates with regional managers to streamline production cycles across New Zealand and Australia. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of cold chain infrastructure and inventory management systems to maintain product integrity. Peter Young directs the technical teams responsible for maintaining processing facilities, ensuring compliance with international food safety standards. By refining operational workflows, the Acting Chief Operating Officer reduces waste and improves output quality. Young supports the broader corporate strategy by providing the logistical backbone necessary for successful international trade, ensuring that the company meets the high-volume demands of global partners in the Pacific and beyond.

    Debra Lumsden - Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit

    Debra Lumsden, the Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit at Sanford, directs human capital strategy and the specialized operations of the mussel business division. Lumsden architects talent acquisition and development programs that support the unique needs of the aquaculture workforce. As the Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit, Lumsden ensures that the organizational structure aligns with the specific production requirements of greenshell mussels. This role involves fostering a high-performance culture that emphasizes safety and operational excellence. Debra Lumsden oversees the integration of personnel management with the strategic goals of the mussel business unit, ensuring that teams remain focused on quality and efficiency. By managing labor relations and professional development, the Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit drives employee engagement across all regional facilities. Lumsden supports the company mission by cultivating a skilled workforce capable of maintaining the high standards required for international seafood distribution and processing.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Food & Beverage

    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 Peter Young (Acting Chief Operating 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), Peter Young (Acting Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sanford have?
    Sanford has 4 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, Acting Chief Operating Officer, Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit.