Mr White’s architectural practice White Design is known for its use of timber and has won more than 25 industry awards, including accolades from RIBA, the RICS and BREEAM.
One of its most notable projects was Velux’s headquarters building in Kettering, featuring extensive use of glulam beams and western red cedar cladding and shingles.
By taking up the position of Wood for Good chairman, Mr White is also extending his involvement with the timber industry – he was formerly chairman of Wood for Gold, the timber industry Olympics marketing/lobbying campaign which campaigned for the use of wood in building London Olympics venues.
"This is undoubtedly timber’s time," said Mr White.
"The UK’s built environment has to deliver greener and more energy-efficient buildings in lower build times and certified timber is the sustainable super material which can help make this happen.
"Couple these considerations with a broader desire to increase not just the UK’s, but the world’s forest cover in order to boost the planet’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide, and the case for driving demand for timber becomes ever more compelling.
"Wood for Good has a vital role to play in educating the industry and its clients about timber’s enormous potential to help UK construction make these transformative changes and contribute to global afforestation."
Mr White replaces outgoing chairman John Kissock OBE.