One Benchmark Value Award Winner 2023: Passionate
Rueben Johansen | Job Role: Site Manager at Lønningdal, Genetics | Location: Norway
Tom Olsen
Tom exemplifies passion in his dedication towards his work and his complete commitment to running the Lønningdal site safely and efficiently. With an eye for practical facilitation, Tom has helped improve fish welfare and optimise operations in Lønningdal and beyond.
Tom developed a new tank function which optimised the feeding of family fish and simplified the cleaning work for employees. Tom also managed to secure investments which have yielded good financially returns and has improved sustainability through restructuring of LED lights, a new oxygen mixer as well as other projects. Tom keeps the well-being of his team as his priority and makes all visitors feel welcome.
As part of a series of Q&As with our LOV Award winners we interviewed Tom to find out more about his role and what the Passionate value means to him:
Can you describe your role at Benchmark?
I manage the Benchmark Genetics site in Lønningdal, Norway. I ensure compliance is met with all internal and external requirements. My responsibilities include planning and overseeing the breeding nucleus production with a focus on biosecurity and fish welfare. Additionally, it is very important to me to ensure that all the team are happy and satisfied at the end of the working day and that they look forward to the next working day.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy the planning of operations at the plant (a good plan makes the production year easier to implement), cross-departmental collaboration in Benchmark and solving the many challenges which biological production presents – it is challenging, exciting and, not least, educational.
What is your interpretation of the passionate value?
Passionate value, to me, involves enjoying learning, inspiring and helping co-workers to build confidence in their work and themselves. Encouraging others to become the best versions of themselves creates a positive and happy workplace environment, reduces stress and leads to greater achievements. This carries over to leisure time too.
What has been the most exciting change at Benchmark in the last year?
The construction of a new department at Benchmark Genetics Salten is a significant development. This expansion allows for fish deliveries at an earlier stage from Lønningdal, shifting from December to September. This change not only improves fish welfare but enables us to transport fish at 150gms in September compared to 350gms in December; this also enhances sustainability by reducing the number of trailers required by 50% from 8 to 4.
