BIM announces interim CEO

Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, has today (Wednesday 28 September) appointed Caroline Bocquel as its interim CEO.

Caroline Bocquel currently holds the role of BIM, Director of Corporate Services, having joined the organisation in 2021.  She previously held the role of Chief Financial Officer at Goal, and Director of Corporate Services at the Marine Institute.

BIM Chair, Aidan Cotter, who made the announcement referenced the drive and experience that Caroline Bocquel would bring to this key role.

“On behalf of the BIM board, I would like to congratulate Caroline on her appointment as interim CEO at BIM. Caroline brings a wealth of experience to this role, including significant experience working within the marine sector.”

Caroline takes up her role on 1 November, 2022 when the current BIM CEO, Jim O’Toole takes up his new position as CEO at Bord Bia.  Jim has held the role of BIM CEO for the last five years. A competitive process to appoint a permanent new BIM CEO is already underway.

To date in her role at BIM, Caroline has been heavily involved in the development of the organisation’s new corporate strategy. She has also led the development of an innovative new grants process to provide a high-quality service to clients within the Irish seafood industry and other BIM stakeholders.

Caroline has been integral to the development of new streamlined processes at BIM, further enhancing the seafood state agency’s ability to be an effective support for industry at a critical time. These include leading new digital initiatives, the development of internal capability and a strong focus on governance.

Following the announcement, Caroline Bocquel said she was looking forward to working with colleagues in BIM and with industry in her new role over the coming months.

“I am delighted to accept this interim appointment and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the senior leadership team, across the wider BIM team, and in industry for the coming months, as we work to support and develop the seafood sector during this critical period.”