John F. Diener

John F. Diener is the Co-Founder and CEO of Vertical Oceans, a company based in Singapore that specializes in sustainable seafood production using innovative vertical aquaculture systems. Under his leadership since August 2020, Vertical Oceans has developed a modular, zero-discharge recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) that is highly automated and environmentally friendly, producing seafood without chemicals or antibiotics.13

Diener has a diverse professional background, having held significant roles across various industries. Before founding Vertical Oceans, he served as the Chief Operating Officer at AgriProtein, where he managed operations and technology development for a leading insect protein company. His earlier experience includes positions as Managing Director at Gold Coin Aqua Group and Group General Manager of Corporate Development at The Zuellig Group. He also has a strong foundation in corporate strategy, having worked as the Chief Strategy Officer at Zuellig Pharma and held leadership roles at Monitor Group and Essilor Australia/New Zealand.124

In terms of education, John F. Diener holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Chicago and a Master's degree in Sustainable Aquaculture from the University of St Andrews. He has also participated in an Executive Program at Singularity University, focusing on future technology.12

Diener is known for his commitment to food sustainability and innovative approaches to aquaculture, aiming to revolutionize the industry while protecting marine resources.56