“Our passion for quality and innovation is part of our DNA”

Whether it be Capt. John himself or one of our production line workers, our employees bring years of experience to work everyday. Many of us have worked together for more than 30 years, and in the process we spend more time with one another than we do our own families. Perhaps this is why we refer to our employees as “The Bama Family.”

Many of Bama’s originals raised their kids in this business with two key values: hard work and great seafood. With the second generation of Adam Zewen, Brian Jackson, Michael Stephens and Dottie Stephens Guy, the high standards and work ethic continues…

Key Staff

• John Stephens – President – The founder and still captain of the ship. His lifetime of seafood experience is one of Bama’s most valuable assets. John attended the University of Notre Dame.
• John Jackson – VP of Operations & Plant Director – With over 35 years of experience running seafood processing, Mr. Jackson is one of the most respected plant operators in the seafood industry. He continues to innovate and help Bama stay at the forefront of seafood processing.
• Michael Stephens – General Manager & Chief Counsel – Michael’s first job at Bama was shoveling ice at Bama’s plant in St. Petersburg. He is now responsible for day-to-day operations, strategic relationships, and all legal matters. Michael attended the University of Notre Dame and Stetson University College of Law.
• Adam Zewen – VP of Purchasing – Adam began his career on the docks in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, learning the seafood business from the ground up. He has a lifetime of contacts throughout the Gulf of Mexico and has extensive knowledge regarding sourcing and processing shrimp.
• Fred Stengard – Director Quality Control – His understanding of seafood and his passion for quality form the backbone of Bama’s Food Safety department. Fred is also an Adjunct Oceanography and Biology Professor at St. Petersburg College. Fred has a Master’s in Marine Science from The University of Florida.
• Brian Jackson – Director of Facilities & Processing – Brian was raised in the seafood business and helps keep the plant running smoothly on a daily basis. He also works with sales to help develop new products and utilize Bama’s processing capabilities. Brian attended the University of South Florida.
• Dottie Stephens Guy – Marketing & Product Development – Dottie is responsible for all phases of product development, including market trends, recipe development and packaging. Dottie attended Florida State University.