WPA announces strengthened management structure

In this new management structure Gordon Ewbank becomes chief executive officer, heading up the leadership team. He has overall responsibility for all external activities, technical and regulatory affairs and is the association’s spokesman.

Former director of operations and company secretary Steve Young becomes chairman of the WPA board with executive responsibility for corporate governance, reputation management and communications strategy.

Former WPA chairman Chris Coggins puts his unrivalled wood protection expertise to work as the association’s new standards and quality director.

The WPAs operational capabilities are much strengthened by the appointment of Janet Sycamore to the leadership team. Janet joined the WPA board in July this year and becomes company secretary.

Based at the WPA’s office in Castleford, Ms Sycamore is responsible for WPA member and management services, supported by Caroline Hewison.

“Demand for wood is growing strongly, opening up opportunities for wood protection technology,” said Mr Ewbank. “I am delighted to be heading up the WPA’s team focused on promoting the quality products and processes that help to make the most of wood as a sustainable construction and landscaping material.”

Steve Young said that the interests of WPA members lay at the heart of the board’s decision to reorganise. “Fire protection and preservative treated wood quality are the two big issues of our time and likely to demand attention for the foreseeable future,” he said. “With the timber supply chain turning increasingly to WPA as a centre of excellence on technical and regulatory matters, quality assurance and buyer education, the board has put in place a leadership team that makes the most of our expertise and better serves the interests of our growing membership.”