Algalíf Announces CEO Transition as Orri Björnsson Moves to Political Role
Algalíf has confirmed that Orri Björnsson is stepping down as CEO after thirteen years running the company. It’s a notable moment for the Icelandic biotech firm, which has built its reputation on microalgae cultivation and is currently in the middle of a significant production expansion.
Taking over is Kári Marís Guðmundsson, who has been serving as director of PCC in Bakka. He will begin his new role at Algalíf in early December.
Björnsson explained the decision in a recent Facebook post. He has taken on the leadership of the Independents in Hafnarfjörður, been appointed chairman of the Hafnarfjörður town council, and holds the chairmanship of the planning and building council. On top of that, he intends to stand for the top spot in the party’s upcoming primaries — a schedule that leaves little room for anything else.
“These responsibilities, along with the upcoming primaries and election campaign, require my full attention,” he explained. “As the leader of the Independents in Hafnarfjörður, I’m committed to giving my all to this initiative. I am also focused on leading the party list in the primaries for the municipal elections this spring. As mayoral candidate, I am determined to ensure a successful campaign.”
He was warm about his time at Algalíf. The company’s new factory is now fully operational, and Björnsson clearly feels good about the position he is leaving it in. “Algalíf will always hold a special place in my heart,” he shared. “I wish the company and all its employees continued success.”
Algalíf operates out of Ásbrú in Reykjanesbær, producing astaxanthin — a potent antioxidant derived from microalgae. The company is currently scaling production from 1,500 to 5,000 kilos per year as part of a larger factory build. This summer, the venture fund Aldir picked up a 50% stake in the business, which is co-owned by Norwegian entrepreneurs Andres K. Flaaten and Kenneth G. Bertn, the company’s original founders.
For more insights, view Orri Björnsson’s full post here.
