Following the Institute of Chartered Foresters’ Annual General Meeting on 4 June 2025, a new President and Vice President have been appointed.
Andrew Sowerby FICFor was elected President as the successor to Geraint Richards MVO FICFor, who has completed two years in the role, and Dr Gary Kerr FICFor succeeds Andrew as Vice President.
Andrew recently joined Bronwin & Abbey Ltd as a Director after almost nine years working for Pryor & Rickett Silviculture (now Euroforest Silviculture). He has sat on the Institute’s Wales Member Network Committee and has been a PME Assessor. Andrew is also a Board Member for PEFC UK.
Speaking after his election, Andrew said:
“It’s a real honour to be elected as President of the Institute of Chartered Foresters. The Institute for me is more than an organisation, it’s a home, and has been a constant across my career spanning the public, private and third sectors.
“I’m very much stepping into this role embracing the diversity and experience that defines our profession. The Institute is built on a foundation of knowledge, mentorship and community and together we can continue to shape the future of our profession with integrity and ambition.”
Before retiring in 2023, Gary was Principal Silviculturist at Forest Research and was Editor-in-Chief of the Institute’s scientific journal Forestry: An International Journal of Forest Research for two decades. Gary is currently Chair of the Professional and Educational Standards Committee.
Gary said:
“It will be a great honour and privilege to serve the Institute of Chartered Foresters as Vice President. Trees offer solutions to many of the environmental, social and economic challenges we face.
“Members of the Institute, the tree professionals, are best placed to advise on and implement these solutions. I will be working tirelessly to grow the membership and ensure their skills, knowledge and integrity are recognised. My message is: Professionals Everywhere!”
