As CEO, Richard was instrumental in ensuring that Stavis Seafoods provides the products and market expertise that are needed to be a one-stop seafood source. Richard’s career at Stavis began in 1979 when he started working part time.  After college in 1985, Richard joined Stavis Seafoods full time working in a variety of positions including shipping and inventory.

In 1987, Richard made the jump to selling and buying, a position that eventually led to a promotion to Frozen Buying Manager in 1990. Richard excelled in this position, learning the industry and developing the leadership skills he would need to eventually run the company. In 1996, Richard was unanimously selected to head the company and serve as CEO by Stavis Seafoods' shareholders. His skill, intelligence and leadership capabilities have helped guide Stavis Seafoods to continued growth, enabling him to add the title of President in 2000.

He currently serves as Treasurer of the Boston Marine Park Business Association and as Member of the Board of Overseers of Children's Hospital, Boston. Richard is a former Board of Directors Member for the National Fisheries Institute.

Richard graduated from Connecticut College with a BA in Anthropology in 1985.

January 2018: Stavis Seafoods has replaced CEO Richard Stavis with Chuck Marble, Stavis’ president and former CEO of Elevation Brands, following an investment from Dutch fishing company IMV. Following the transaction, Richard Stavis will move into a new role as chief sustainability officer and director of purchasing for Stavis Seafoods.