October 21, 2025 — The following was releases by the National Fisheries Institute:
The National Fisheries Institute (NFI) Sushi Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Dick Jones as its new Executive Director. A mission-driven seafood and aquaculture executive with more than 38 years of experience across the private, nonprofit, and retail sectors, Jones brings deep expertise in sustainable fisheries, global seafood markets, and industry transformation.
“The Sushi Council is entering an exciting new chapter as we grow membership, strengthen industry leadership on food safety, and build sushi’s place as a vibrant and expanding category,” said Dick Jones, Executive Director of the NFI Sushi Council and CEO of Tidepoint Group, which is guiding the project. “I’m honored to help shape this effort and to work alongside our members to advance responsible sourcing, ensure product integrity, and bring greater value to everyone who enjoys and serves sushi.”
Jones most recently served as CEO of Blue Ocean Mariculture, where he oversaw significant revenue growth while advancing innovations in marine fish production and sustainability. He previously held leadership roles with Ocean Outcomes, Sustainable Fisheries Partnership, HEB Grocery Company, and Whole Foods Market. In his new role, Jones will work closely with NFI staff, the Sushi Council chair, and the executive committee to expand membership, increase visibility, and guide technical initiatives. Jones will be allocating his time and expertise between the NFI Sushi Council and other seafood industry projects.
“Dick Jones brings a rare combination of retail, nonprofit, and aquaculture leadership to the NFI Sushi Council,” said Council Chairman Michael McNicholas of Culimer USA. “His experience building coalitions, advancing food safety, and championing sustainability will ensure the Council continues to deliver value for members and set a strong course for the future of sushi in the U.S. market.”
The NFI Sushi Council is a pre-competitive stakeholder group made up of fish farmers, harvesters, processors, distributors, and end-users at retail and foodservice. The Council works across the entire sushi value chain to enhance product integrity, promote industry-led food safety, and position sushi as a trusted and growing category. For more information, visit NFIsushicouncil.com.