Murray Cod Australia has appointed Steven Chaur as its new Managing Director and CEO, aiming to accelerate revenue growth and operational efficiency from April 2026. The move signals a strategic push to deepen domestic channels and expand the luxury fish brand’s market presence.
- Steven Chaur appointed CEO effective 20 April 2026
- Interim leadership by Mat Ryan and Roger Commins until Chaur’s start
- Chaur brings nearly 30 years of FMCG and agricultural leadership experience
- Compensation includes $570,000 base salary plus equity and performance incentives
- Focus on domestic channel development, revenue growth, and operational efficiency
Leadership Transition at Murray Cod Australia
Murray Cod Australia Limited (ASX: MCA), a vertically integrated producer of the premium Aquna Sustainable Murray cod, has announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Steven Chaur as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 20 April 2026. Currently serving as a Non-Executive Director, Chaur will transition into an executive role, taking the helm to steer the company through its next growth phase.
Until Chaur’s commencement, the company will be led by Interim Joint CEOs Mat Ryan, Executive Director - Production and Development, and Non-Executive Director Roger Commins. This interim arrangement ensures continuity and stability during the leadership handover.
A Proven Leader with FMCG and Agricultural Expertise
Steven Chaur brings a wealth of experience spanning nearly three decades in sales, brand marketing, product development, and operations leadership across consumer food products and large-scale agriculture. His background includes CEO and Managing Director roles at notable companies such as Patties Food Limited, Hiro Brands Limited, and Nutrano Produce Group, alongside senior executive positions at George Weston Foods and Unilever.
His expertise covers both business-to-consumer and business-to-business channels, including supermarkets, foodservice, wholesale, quick service restaurants, and export markets, particularly in developed Asia. This diverse experience positions him well to drive MCA’s ambitions in expanding its domestic footprint and exploring international opportunities.
Strategic Focus and Incentive Structure
The company’s chairman, Brett Paton, highlighted that Chaur’s appointment is aimed at increasing proactivity in domestic channel development, growing revenues, and optimising operational efficiencies to secure sustainable long-term growth. The leadership change reflects MCA’s commitment to evolving its commercial strategy and capitalising on its award-winning Murray cod product, which is highly regarded by chefs globally.
Chaur’s remuneration package includes a base salary of $570,000 per annum, a sign-on bonus of 200,000 ordinary shares subject to shareholder approval and a 12-month holding lock, as well as short-term and long-term incentives tied to performance hurdles such as revenue growth and share price appreciation. These incentives align his interests closely with shareholder value creation.
Looking Ahead
As MCA prepares for this leadership transition, investors and industry watchers will be keen to see how Chaur’s commercial acumen translates into tangible growth and operational improvements. The company’s proprietary aquaculture technology and premium positioning in the luxury fish market provide a strong foundation, but execution under new leadership will be critical to unlocking its full potential.
Bottom Line?
Steven Chaur’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for MCA as it seeks to scale its premium aquaculture business amid evolving market dynamics.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific performance targets will be set for Chaur’s short- and long-term incentives?
- How will MCA accelerate domestic channel development under the new CEO?
- What are the company’s plans for expanding export markets, especially in Asia?