Scottish seafood industry launches recruitment campaign

UK public body Seafish has partnered with the Scottish Seafood Association to promote careers in the seafood processing industry, from entry to senior level, opportunities on the factory floor, in the offices or in laboratories.

Jimmy Buchan, chief executive of the Scottish Seafood Association, said: “With the demand and growth opportunities across this sector, a number of seafood businesses are having to turn down contracts as demand supersedes ability to produce. ​

Struggling with recruitment ​

“​We know the seafood processing sector is not the only sector struggling with recruitment at the moment, but the diversity of jobs coupled with opportunities to further your career will allow focussed individuals to reach new and promising ambitions.”​

Encouraging young people to join the seafood industry is a particular focus of this campaign, as well as those looking for a mid-career move – such as returning to work after having children.

“There are a wealth of jobs and a lack of candidates, particularly for entry level factory processing roles,”​ Buchan added. 

Many opportunities ​

“While many people will start at entry level, there are lots of opportunities for those that have the drive to progress into other roles. However, there are some who are quite happy to stay at entry level and this is welcome too.”​

‘Sea A Bright Future’ will run across radio and digital channels throughout November, including a four-week YouTube campaign. 

Meanwhile, Avara Foods is to create more than 150 new jobs​​ as part of a £4.7m investment into a new facility in Wednesbury, West Midlands.

Recruitment for roles at the site has already begun, with plans for an initial complement of 50 staff when the facility opens. Work has already commenced at the site and is expected to be operating before Christmas.