Australian Forest Products Association chairman Joel Fitzgibbon has resigned and been replaced by Pentarch executive director Stephen Dadd. Source: Timberbiz
Mr Fitzgibbon informed the board of his intention on Sunday, and on Monday the board accepted his decision effective immediately.
Acting CEO Natasa Sikman has also resigned. Richard Hyett has stepped into the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer.
Natasa Sikman
Mr Dadd, who was officially elected on Tuesday, is also Chair of AFPA NSW and a Director of Forest Wood Products Australia.
Jean-Yves Nouaze will continue as Deputy Chair.
Mr Fitzgibbon has been on the AFPA board since June 2022 and took on the role of Chair in 2023. In that time, he also served as Interim Chief Executive Officer from January to September 2023.
Mr Nouaze thanked Mr Fitzgibbon for his service to the forest products sector as well as his long-term support for the industry.
“AFPA has been fortunate to have Joel’s support for the sector over many years. As Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Forestry, Joel passionately represented the importance of our industry to Members of Parliament for Australian communities.
“It is testament to Joel’s commitment to the industry, that following a distinguished career in Australian politics, he agreed to serve as Director and Chair of AFPA.
“Throughout his time as Chair, Joel has guided AFPA and the Board through government relations as well as national and international climate policy decisions and CEO recruitment,” Mr Nouaze said.
“We look forward to our ongoing positive relationship with Joel as he pursues a range of other commitments.
“We wish Joel well for his future endeavours.”
An announcement regarding a new CEO is expected soon.
The Softwoods Working Group has extended its heartfelt appreciation to Mr Fitzgibbon for his exceptional leadership as both CEO and Chair of the Australian Forest Products Association.
SWG executive officer Carlie Porteous said Mr Fitzgibbon played a pivotal role in steering the organization through a transitional phase, demonstrating unwavering dedication and commitment.
She said he had worked tirelessly to elevate the profile of the forest products industry, championing its cause and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
His passion for the sector had left an indelible mark, and the Softwoods Working Group expressed its deepest gratitude for his contribution.
Ms Porteous said the new chairman would bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the industry to his new role.
“He is highly respected by all in the industry, and we look forward to his contribution and leadership as Chair,” Ms Porteous said.
“The Softwoods Working Group looks forward to working closely with Stephen Dadd in his new capacity as Chair of AFPA and is confident that his leadership will further strengthen the industry’s position and foster continued collaboration among industry stakeholders.”
