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Laura Johnson
Sr Commercial Manager, Western US at Marine Stewardship Council
Professional Background
Laura Johnson is a seasoned professional in the field of marine resource management, eco-entrepreneurship, and sustainable fisheries. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade, she currently holds the position of Senior Commercial Manager for the Western U.S. at the Marine Stewardship Council. In this role, she spearheads initiatives to promote sustainable fishing practices, ensuring the health and longevity of marine environments while advocating for responsible sourcing within the seafood industry.
Prior to her current role, Laura served as the Commercial Manager for the Western U.S. at the Marine Stewardship Council where she effectively managed partnerships and strategies to bolster the council's mission. Before that, she made significant contributions as a Project Manager at Sustainable Fisheries Group, where she focused on innovative solutions for fisheries sustainability.
Laura's extensive background does not end there; she has also worked as a Fisheries Management Scientist at Conservation International. Here, she played an integral part in developing policies and strategies aimed at protecting marine ecosystems globally. Her diverse roles extend to her co-founding of Salty Girl Seafood, Inc., where she held the position of Chief Operating Officer and member of the Board of Directors, promoting women-led initiatives in seafood sustainability.
Moreover, Laura's dedication to education is showcased through her experience as a Teaching Assistant at the Graduate Division at UC Santa Barbara, where she shared her knowledge with aspiring marine scientists. Her work not only includes management and policy but also hands-on roles, such as her position as a Dive Assistant at Maui Underseas Adventures, where she engaged directly with marine environments.
Education and Achievements
Laura's academic journey laid the foundation for her deep commitment to marine conservation and ecological sustainability. She studied Coastal Marine Resource Management and Eco-Entrepreneurship at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she honed her skills and knowledge in managing coastal ecosystems while fostering innovative business practices focused on sustainability. Her Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Colorado College provided her with a strong scientific background that she leverages in her professional work.
Laura's education, combined with her wealth of professional experiences, underscores her dedication to understanding and solving complex issues related to marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. Her ability to bridge the gap between science and business makes her a leader in her field, known for her strategic thinking and collaborative approach.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Laura has achieved several notable milestones. Her role at the Marine Stewardship Council has been pivotal in driving the council's initiatives for responsible fishing practices, which have positively impacted environmental conservation efforts across the United States. She has successfully managed multiple campaigns and partnerships that have raised awareness and led to significant changes within the seafood supply chain.
In addition to her managerial successes, Laura's entrepreneurial spirit shone through her co-founding of Salty Girl Seafood, where she not only contributed to sustainable seafood practices but also empowered women in the industry. Her passion for mentorship and education extends beyond her professional roles, as evidenced by her earlier experience coaching track and field at Colorado College, where she inspired young athletes to pursue their goals.
Achievements
