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imagen de Gerardo Balbontín Fox

Gerardo Balbontín Fox

CEO
Blumar

Gerardo Balbontín Fox is a seasoned executive with a strong track record in strategic leadership and corporate management within the Chilean aquaculture sector. Throughout his career, he has led prominent salmon farming companies, holding senior executive roles and overseeing large-scale operational and organizational processes. His expertise integrates strategic vision, financial discipline, and deep knowledge of the aquaculture value chain — from production and farming operations to global commercialization. He has managed multidisciplinary teams in highly regulated and technically demanding environments, promoting productivity improvements, operational efficiency, and enhanced sustainability standards. In addition to his executive responsibilities, he has contributed to industry-level discussions through participation in boards and sector-related initiatives, addressing competitiveness, regulatory frameworks, and the long-term development of Chilean aquaculture in international markets. His professional profile combines corporate leadership, industrial expertise, and a long-term strategic perspective focused on sustainable sector growth.

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Explore the full list of experts who will take part in conferences, panels, and
event activities.

imagen de Juanita Castañeda

Juanita Castañeda

Scientific Advisor – Industry
Biomerieux Chile

Specialist in microbiology and molecular genetics, with a focus on diagnostics, genetic sequencing, and scientific advisory for industry.

imagen de Dr. Ruben Avendaño

Dr. Ruben Avendaño

Deputy Director, Applied Research Center
Interdisciplinary Center for Aquaculture Research (INCAR)

Leading academic and researcher in aquatic organism pathology, bacterial diseases, and antimicrobial resistance.

imagen de Marianne Gaedicke

Marianne Gaedicke

Senior Advisor
Seafood People

Senior executive with more than two decades of experience leading commercial and strategic operations in the global aquaculture and fisheries industry. She is recognized for building strategic partnerships, negotiating complex commercial agreements, and managing multicultural teams.

imagen de Dr. Morten Rye

Dr. Morten Rye

Director of Genetic Services & International Strategy
BENCHMARK GENETICS

Director of Genetic Services & International Strategy at Benchmark Genetics and holds a PhD in Animal Breeding and Genetics from the Norwegian University of Agriculture. With over 35 years of experience in aquaculture genetics, he leads the global delivery of advanced genetic and genomic services, breeding program design, and international partnerships, working with commercial breeding operations across more than 20 species in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.