When AKVA group’s new Chief Innovation Officer (CIO), Arnstein Hosaas, talks about the future, he focuses as much on people as on technology. He is concerned with how the entire organization can help shape an industry that is both growing and improving.

Five years ago, Hosaas left subsea and oil for aquaculture and technology at AKVA group, after 15 years in oil services.

Arnstein HosaasArnstein Hosaas in AKVA group. Photo: AKVA group

“I wanted to be part of an industry where I could make a bigger difference. I believe in aquaculture, but growth only makes sense if we simultaneously improve,” he says.

He joined as Head of Marine Infrastructure in the innovation department, responsible for nets, pens and moorings. The transition from steel and concrete to plastic and flexible structures was steep – and he was quickly impressed by the competence within the organization.
 


When experts pull in the same direction

What made the biggest impression was the interaction between engineers and people with extensive hands-on experience.

This became especially evident when AKVA group, together with Sinkaberg, started commercializing Nautilus. With a simple collaboration agreement and a tight-knit team, the concept was quickly brought to life. Today, more than six percent of all Norwegian salmon are raised in a Nautilus system, resulting in lower mortality and better quality.

“For me, this is a strong example of what we can achieve when technical environments, field operations and customers bring out the best in each other,” Hosaas says.

Leaders who listen – and provide direction

In 2021, he took over as Innovation Director for the sea-based innovation unit, responsible for both Precision Feeding and Fish Performance. The goal was to build a strong innovation environment – and make the work more visible.

AKVA groupMerete Sandberg, Arnstein Hosaas, Magnus Bollmann and Odin Rørvik in AKVA group. Photo: Oslo Business Forum

As part of this effort, the Global Solution Manager roles were established, now held by Magnus Bollmann (Marine Infrastructure), Merete Sandberg (Fish Performance) and Odin Rørvik (Precision Feeding).

“They are the link between the technology we develop and the fish farmers’ needs. Their role is to listen and to point the way forward,” he says.

A larger vision – with room for everyone

Hosaas recently stepped into the role of Chief Innovation Officer and joined the executive management team. Complexity is increasing, with stricter regulations and higher expectations for both fish welfare and environmental impact.

Still, he believes the core remains the same:

“Innovation is not just about new products. It is about mindset, curiosity and the willingness to challenge what we have always done. Everyone in the organization has a role in that, no matter where they sit.”

For Hosaas, this is also what defines AKVA group as a workplace.

“I hope people feel that they are part of something bigger. That they see the connection between the work they do every day and the goal of improving the aquaculture industry. If we manage that, we are not just part of the development – we can help lead it,” he says.