Algalíf Announces CEO Transition as Orri Björnsson Moves to Political Role
In a significant development for the biotechnology sector, Algalíf has officially announced that Orri Björnsson will retire as CEO after a dedicated thirteen years at the helm. Björnsson’s departure marks the end of an era for the company, known for its innovative work in microalgae.
Stepping into the role is Kári Marís Guðmundsson, the outgoing director of PCC in Bakka, who will assume leadership at Algalíf starting in early December.
In a recent Facebook post, Orri Björnsson, who has also taken on the role of leader for the Independents in Hafnarfjörður, reflected on his evolving commitments. He noted his recent appointment as chairman of the Hafnarfjörður town council and his position as chairman of the planning and building council. Moreover, he expressed his intent to run for the top spot in the party’s upcoming primaries.
“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.”
Orri expressed pride in his tenure at Algalíf, highlighting the company’s promising future, bolstered by a new factory now fully operational. “Algalíf will always hold a special place in my heart,” he shared. “I wish the company and all its employees continued success.”
Algalíf specializes in cultivating microalgae at its facility in Ásbrú, Reykjanesbær, where it produces the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin. The company is in the midst of expanding production capacity from 1,500 to 5,000 kilos per year with the construction of a larger factory. This summer, the venture fund Aldir acquired a 50% stake in Algalíf, now co-owned by Norwegian entrepreneurs Andres K. Flaaten and Kenneth G. Bertn, who originally founded the company.
For more insights, view Orri Björnsson’s full post here.
