Benchmark Holdings plc has announced the appointment of Jonathan Esfandi as a Non-Executive Director. Esfandi is the founder and managing partner at JNE Partners LLP. He will act as the shareholder representative of JNE Partners LLP, a significant shareholder of the company. As a result, the Board has determined that he is not an independent director. Laura Lavers, who joined the Board in November 2022, will retire from her position as a Non-Executive Director with immediate effect. Peter George, Chairman of Benchmark, expressed his gratitude to Lavers for her contributions over the past year.

In accordance with Rule 17 and paragraph (g) of Schedule 2 of the AIM Rules for Companies, the following information is disclosed regarding Jonathan Esfandi's appointment to the Board: his full name is Jonathan Esfandi, he is 49 years old, and he currently holds directorships at JNE PARTNERS LLP and JNE PARTNERS (UK) SERVICES LTD. He has not held any previous directorships within the past five years. Esfandi does not have a direct beneficial interest in the equity securities of Benchmark Holdings plc, but funds managed by JNE Partners LLP hold 169,263,811 shares in the company.

Benchmark Holdings plc is a leading aquaculture biotechnology company. Its mission is to enable aquaculture producers to improve their sustainability and profitability. The company combines biology and technology to develop innovative products and solutions that enhance yield, quality, and animal health and welfare for its customers. Benchmark focuses on improving the genetic makeup, health, and nutrition of aquaculture stock, from broodstock and hatchery to nursery and grow out.