Bermuda Biological Station for Research veteran trustee Michael Naess has been elected as chairman of the station's board.

Mr. Naess, 63, of Warwick, currently operates his own investment management company and serves as independent director on various boards in the US and elsewhere.

Mr. Naess came to Bermuda in 1989 after serving in various executive capacities in ocean related businesses, including oil tankers, marine construction and off shore oil and gas exploration.

He also served as chairman of Arethusa Ltd., a Bermuda-based company traded daily on NASDAQ, that is engaged in the ownership and operation of mobile offshore drilling rigs.

Mr. Naess replaces recently retired Christopher Roosevelt who was chairman for six years.

Also elected at the Annual General Meeting were three vice-chairmen, Senator Walwyn Hughes, Robert Cawthorn, and Ian Strecker .

Richard Butterfield was re-elected as treasurer and Gillian Hollis was elected secretary, replacing Rosamund Butler who retired after 20 years of service. Dr. Tony Knap remains director of the Institute.

Ms Butler and Mr. Roosevelt will continue to serve as Trustees.