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 seafood, Sanford is dedicated to providing high-quality products through responsible farming and harvesting practices, impacting global markets with its diverse offerings.

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's leadership ensures alignment across all business segments, from wildcatch operations to aquaculture initiatives, driving the company's long-term vision. This executive guides the strategic direction for seafood processing and marketing, focusing on expanding market reach across North America, Europe, and Asia. By overseeing global expansion efforts, Henry Pearsall solidifies Sanford's position in international seafood markets. The Chairman's role involves critical engagement with the board of directors, ensuring robust corporate oversight and strategic decision-making that supports sustainable growth and profitability. Pearsall's executive mandate encompasses driving innovation in both farming techniques and harvesting methods to maintain a competitive edge in the global seafood industry.

    Donnisha Sanford - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Donnisha Sanford, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Sanford, establishes the foundational principles and ongoing mission of the organization. Sanford's deep understanding of the seafood industry informs strategic decisions, particularly in the development and execution of both wildcatch and aquaculture segments. This leadership role involves guiding the company's commitment to sustainable practices in farming, harvesting, and processing a wide array of seafood products. Donnisha Sanford oversees the strategic integration of new technologies and methodologies to enhance operational efficiency and product quality across all global markets, including New Zealand, Australia, and key Asian regions. The Founder's vision shapes the company's approach to market challenges and opportunities, ensuring continued relevance and leadership in the international seafood sector. Sanford's executive focus remains on fostering a culture of excellence and responsibility throughout the entire value chain.

    Beverly Michael - Chief Financial Officer

    Beverly Michael, the Chief Financial Officer at Sanford, manages all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Michael's responsibilities include overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting across Sanford's diverse global operations spanning New Zealand, Australia, North America, and Europe. This executive ensures the financial health and stability of the company by optimizing resource allocation for both wildcatch and aquaculture segments. Beverly Michael directs investment strategies for processing facilities and harvesting fleets, driving profitability and shareholder value. The Chief Financial Officer plays a critical part in evaluating market opportunities and managing financial risks associated with international trade and commodity pricing. Michael's leadership ensures compliance with financial regulations across all operating regions and guides the company's financial strategy to support sustainable expansion and operational excellence.
    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 all business units. Young's purview includes managing the efficiency and effectiveness of both the wildcatch and aquaculture segments, from initial harvesting to final processing and storage. This executive directs the implementation of operational strategies designed to maximize yield and minimize waste in seafood production. Peter Young ensures that all harvesting and farming activities adhere to stringent quality and sustainability standards across Sanford's extensive global network, including operations in Asia and the Pacific. The Acting Chief Operating Officer is responsible for optimizing supply chain logistics and distribution channels to ensure timely delivery of products to markets worldwide. Young's leadership focuses on driving operational improvements and fostering a culture of continuous enhancement within the processing and logistics departments.

    Debra Lumsden - Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit

    Debra Lumsden, the Chief People Officer, Egm Mussels Business Unit at Sanford, leads all human capital strategies and talent management initiatives. Lumsden's focus is on cultivating a skilled and engaged workforce essential for the success of Sanford's mussel farming and harvesting operations. This executive develops and implements HR policies that support employee development, retention, and well-being across the EGM Mussels Business Unit. Debra Lumsden ensures that staffing levels and expertise align with the operational demands of aquaculture and processing facilities, particularly in regions like New Zealand. The Chief People Officer plays a key role in fostering a positive organizational culture and driving employee performance. Lumsden's strategic direction contributes to the overall productivity and growth of the mussel business by empowering the workforce and aligning human resources with business objectives.

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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.