Hanne Tolderlund Rasmussen: from chemical engineering to leading with passion and innovation

Hanne Tolderlund Rasmussen’s career in aquaculture is a testament to resilience, growth, and passion. From her early days as a chemical engineer to becoming a Global Process Innovation Unit Manager at BioMar, her journey is one of discovery and personal evolution.

Woman standing infront of a world map

Hanne in our office in Brande, Denmark

Starting her professional path at the Danish Technological Institute (DTI), Hanne worked hands-on with food and feed projects, where she wasn’t just behind a desk but operating machinery herself. One of her first roles involved running an extruder for BioMar’s organic feed, sparking her long connection with the company. During this time, she also led a project on organic fish feed, working closely with us, which laid the foundation for her future in aquaculture. These experiences, blending practical skills with research, gave her a well-rounded view of the industry.

Her move to BioMar in 2012 was a pivotal moment. During her maternity leave, Ole Christensen, BioMar’s R&D Manager at the time, called to encourage her to apply for a role in the Process Technology Group. She took the leap, beginning a decade-long journey focused on innovation, leadership, and advancing sustainable aquaculture.

For Hanne, aquaculture is exciting because, as she says, “it is in constant evolution”. What stands out most in her career is her personal growth alongside her professional achievements. Transitioning from a scientist to a leadership role was not an easy journey, but with the support of her manager and team, Hanne found her way. Hanne learned that leadership isn’t about knowing everything but empowering others to succeed. As she puts it, "It’s my team that needs to shine, not me."

In her current role, Hanne manages two departments: the Tech Centre and the Process Innovation Team. Both are crucial to BioMar’s research, development, and manufacturing excellence. She thrives on the synergy of science and people, ensuring that her team is aligned with the company’s goals while also feeling supported and valued.

Hanne’s journey has taught her that personal growth is ongoing and success comes from supporting others. Her advice to young women in STEM is simple: "Relax and be yourself—focus on being the best version of you, not competing with others." Her story is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, you can carve a meaningful and impactful path in any field.

Hanne Tolderlund Rasmussen continues to inspire not just through her technical expertise but through her authentic, people-first leadership, showing that true innovation comes from empowering others to reach their full potential.

Results (10)

  • Women chatting at networking at a conference setting

    Leading the future for the next generation of women in STEM

    At BioMar, we believe that equality is crucial to change the world. That is why we are proud to announce our participation in the Lead the Future campaign, led by Above & Beyond. This initiative aims to close the gender gap in STEM by empowering young women to pursue careers and leadership roles in these fields.

    Read more

    Krystal Facey: Steering Sustainable Aquaculture in Jamaica

    Read more

    Risha Alleyne: Transforming Caribbean Aquaculture One Step at a Time

    Risha Alleyne’s journey from Trinidad and Tobago to becoming a leader in Caribbean aquaculture is driven by her vision for sustainable food security and her commitment to empowering communities through innovation and education.

    Read more
  • Woman scuba diving

    Silia Woodside: Leading Coral Restoration in The Bahamas

    Silia’s journey from a small Bahamian fishing village to a leader in coral restoration is a story of passion, science, and a deep commitment to saving our oceans.

    Read more

    Juli-Anne Russo: Building the Caribbean Aquaculture through Innovation

    Read more
  • Woman holding a fish while smiling

    Women steering the course for the Caribbean

    BioMar is proud to support women who are passionate about aquaculture and marine science. In 2023, we announced our sponsorship of Women in Caribbean Aquaculture (WiCA), a network of female professionals and students dedicated to advancing the aquaculture industry in the region.

    Read more

    Kyla Zatti: a journey of hard work and innovation in fish nutrition

    At BioMar, we are honoured to work with a group of brilliant and dedicated North American women driving aquaculture development.

    Read more

    Helen Hamilton: a story about passion in sustainability

    Helen Hamilton, Global Sustainability Manager at BioMar Group, is one of our North American women who has made significant contributions to the aquaculture industry

    Read more
  • Woman at an aquaponics farm

    Mia Avril: Innovating in Nutrition for a Sustainable Caribbean Aquaculture

    From Saint Lucia to the Bahamas, Mia Avril’s journey in aquaculture is fueled by passion and a commitment to sustainable solutions.

    Read more

    Monica Juarez: a dream to battle food insecurity

    Monica Juarez Ceballos, R&D Senior Scientist at BioMar, is one of our North American women that helps advance the aquaculture industry. Originally from Mexico City, Monica has spent the past 16 years living in Norway, where she has integrated herself in the Nordic country without loosing any of her Mexican side.

    Read more