Global Seas Team

Bob Desautel is Co-Founder and Chairman of Global Seas and Nina Fisheries, Inc. A dynamic, results-oriented leader with decades of experience in vessel management, vessel operations, and the broader marine industry, Bob has guided Global Seas to new heights since its inception.  After transitioning from CEO to Chairman, he now shapes the company’s long-term vision – planning, developing, and implementing strategies that promote growth, profitability, and efficiency.  In this role, he reviews financial statements and projections, approves operational procedures and policies, and presents key reports and investment opportunities to stakeholders.

Central to Bob’s leadership philosophy is ensuring the Global Seas team has the resources and support needed to excel.  He believes that a “safety first” culture – one marked by vigilance and responsibility, whether at sea or in the office – is fundamental to sustainable success.  By empowering teams with the right tools and guidance, Bob upholds Global Seas’ reputation for operational excellence and continually drives improvement.

Bob began his career in 1978 while studying business at the University of Nevada, working as a deckhand in the North Pacific and the Bering Sea.  By 1980, he had advanced to Captain—a role he held until 2002, when he retired from the wheelhouse to expand Global Seas.  Prior to that, he co-founded Nina Fisheries in 1994, which quickly moved into Chile and Argentina.  In 2001, Bob co-founded Global Seas as a subsidiary of Nina Fisheries, transforming it into one of the West Coast’s premier vessel management companies. Under his leadership, Global Seas expanded to the East Coast as co-owner of seafood processor Norpel and ventured into maritime research as owner-operator of the R/V Mt. Mitchell.

Beyond daily operations, Bob has tirelessly promoted Wild Alaska Pollock, playing a pivotal role in the re-formation of the Association of Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers (GAPP 2.0).  As of January 2021, he has served as Chairman of GAPP – leading the board in strategic planning, implementing essential marketing and sustainability initiatives, and cultivating strong relationships with industry stakeholders.  His advocacy efforts underscore Wild Alaska Pollock’s low environmental impact, summarized by his well-known phrase, “Wild Alaska Pollock is good for you and good for the planet.”

Bob’s dedication to safety and responsible fishing is also evident in his past service as President and Board Member of the North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners’ Association, where he championed safety education and compliance programs.  Additionally, he co-founded United Catcher Boats in 1993, serving on its Board and later as Vice President, supporting responsible practices across the Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska, and West Coast fisheries.

Today, Bob continues to guide Global Seas and Nina Fisheries, fostering a workplace culture that values innovation, responsibility, and continuous growth. Through his vision, expertise, and commitment to mentorship, he has cemented his reputation as a trusted advisor and strategist within the fishing and maritime industries.