Perkins has worked within the seafood industry for more than 40 years. He started at a salt fish factory in Iceland and went on to become Executive Vice President and COO of Diversified Business Communications, organizer of Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America and Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global. During his 16-year career at Diversified Perkins oversaw 18 seafood trade shows focusing on areas including seafood processing, commercial fishing, ethnic food and organic products. He was instrumental in launching and managing new expositions in Europe, Singapore and San Francisco and provided counsel on strategic direction for the company. He was also responsible for industry publications, National Fisherman, Seafood Business and WorkBoat.