Transition in Leadership at Algalíf
Algalíf has confirmed that Orri Björnsson is retiring as CEO after thirteen years with the company — a long run by any measure in Iceland’s biotechnology sector.
Taking over is Kári Marís Guðmundsson, who steps in from his role as director of PCC in Bakka. He is set to start at Algalíf in early December.
Orri shared his thoughts in a Facebook post, describing the moment as a turning point. “I leave the table with immense pride,” he wrote, reflecting on the years spent steering the company through both rough patches and real achievements.
A Bright Future
He leaves on a positive note. A new factory has recently been completed and is fully up and running. “Algalíf will always hold a special place in my heart, and I wish the company and all its employees nothing but the best,” Orri wrote. He is confident in what comes next: “I know they will continue to push forward and develop this unique vision into an even stronger enterprise.” He plans to stay involved for a few months yet to help the handover go smoothly.
Embracing New Challenges
Orri is not slowing down. He has recently become chairman of the Hafnarfjörður town council and will also chair the planning and building council — commitments that come with real demands, particularly with primary elections on the horizon.
“I am committed to leading our Independents in municipal affairs in Hafnarfjörður,” he said. He is aiming to head the list for the Independence Party in this spring’s town council elections, with his eye on the mayor’s seat. “I will dedicate all my energy toward ensuring a successful election, with the goal of forming a majority to continue advancing Hafnarfjörður,” he wrote on Facebook.
