FWPA’s Head of Research and Development, Dr Chris Lafferty has decided to retire at the end of June 2025, after 23 years with the organisation.
Since joining the then Forest and Wood Products Research & Development Corporation in 2002, Chris has been an invaluable team member, dedicating his significant skills and experience to advancing research and development to benefit members and key stakeholders across the entire forest and wood products value chain.
This is an appropriate time for both parties to make this transition. It will provide a succession plan for FWPA that will support the organisation’s future while allowing Chris to pursue new interests and challenges.
Recruitment for Chris’ replacement will begin in the coming weeks, aimed at securing a suitable candidate by the end of 2024. The goal is to facilitate a significant overlap period between Chris and his successor, providing ample opportunity for comprehensive onboarding, introductions to key relationships, and proactive knowledge sharing to ensure a seamless transition for the broader team.
CEO, Andrew Leighton thanked Chris for his substantial contribution to the organisation and the industry.
“For more than two decades, Chris has served FWPA and our members and we are grateful for his willingness to mentor and guide his successor, to set us up for success moving forward,” he said.
Chris has expressed his gratitude to FWPA for the longevity and opportunities provided over the past 23 years.
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