National Tree Champion, Sir William Worsley, appointed as Forestry Commission Chair
3 February 2020Sir William Worsley has bee confirmed as the new Chair of the Forestry Commission as Sir Harry Studholme leaves after seven years in the post. Sir William held the position of the government’s national Tree Champion, since June 2018 where he worked on developing the English Tree Strategy.
Sir William is current Chairman of the Howardian Hills Area of Natural Beauty Joint Advisory Committee and holds several other non-executive positions including previous appointee to the Independent Panel on Forestry. He began his career as a chartered surveyor and for several years worked with the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) as former President and Chairman of the board.
“With his great expertise in forestry and passion for nature and trees, Sir William will play a pivotal role in leading the Forestry Commission at a critical time as it moves into its second century.” said environment secretary Theresa Villiers.
“Tree planting will play a crucial part in the government’s bold action to combat climate change, and the Forestry Commission has a vital role in delivering our ambitious plans for England’s forests and woodlands.
Commenting on his appointment, Sir William said: “Trees, woods and forests are so important to us – improving our landscapes, helping capture carbon, improving our general wellbeing and providing a renewable resource in the timber they produce.”
