Woodland Heritage has grown steadily over the last 28 years since its inception by Peter Goodwin and Lewis Scott. A combination of new opportunities and rising aspirations means the charity is on the cusp of a step change in its mission to demonstrate the value of British woods.
Background
Woodland Heritage was founded by a passionate group of traditional cabinet makers who wanted to improve the way in which trees were grown, harvested and used in the UK. This small group of environmentally-minded producers was rapidly joined by furniture retailers, timber merchants, tree growers, individuals and colleges who shared concerns for our woodland environment. Woodlands are capable of growing high quality timber whilst providing an environment that supports people and wildlife but only if properly and continuously managed.
We are grateful for the support of a wide range of members, donations from benefactors and the patronage of HRH The Prince of Wales.
Core activities
Woodland Heritage demonstrates the value of British woods through funding projects, providing grants and travel bursaries, supporting research and education, spreading the word through its highly successful Woodland to Workshop courses and Field Weekends and co-operating with like-minded organisations and initiatives.
Since 2009, Woodland Heritage has raised over £2.5m for research into Acute Oak Decline and currently employs two project staff in that area of work. The Charity is also one of eleven organisations on the Steering Committee of Action Oak, with Woodland Heritage the treasurer of the initiative's funds and the employer of its project manager. Funding for both 'AOD' and Action Oak looks strong to spring 2025 and maybe beyond.
Core trading activities
The charity owns Whitney Sawmills, a mill that demonstrates the processing and sale of timber, predominantly hardwood, the majority of which is grown and sourced locally. The mill is growing in profitability, impact and local employment. The charity is in the process of purchasing the site’s freehold. Profits from the mill fund the charity's activities. The Sawmill has its own board and management.
Core woodland activities
The Charity has also been offered a small, existing woodland and has recently purchased an 85 acre area of largely bare land that will be planted from 2022/23. This woodland is a key project for the charity to demonstrate a range of tree species and planting techniques that will demonstrate how to grow high value British woods.
We seek a chair who can
Commit to ensuring the good governance and growth of the charity, to include chairing the Trustees’ meetings (12 times per year) and more frequently liaising with the WH core team (two salaried posts).
Attend Woodland Heritage’s annual Field Weekend (three days usually held in June) to consolidate and enhance our relationships with new and existing members.
Undertake activities equivalent to c.2 days a month, principally involving growing Woodland Heritage’s profile and membership, including supporting fundraising activities.
Relate to WH’s vision and utilise their insight, contacts and experience to help deliver the Charity’s activities. This could involve membership activities, training and promotion, the management of woodland owned by WH and the linkages to and from Whitney Sawmills, Herefordshire (a trading subsidiary of the charity).
Engage the skills of dedicated staff and trustees in the finances and future success of the charity.
Help with the smooth succession planning of senior management in the charity and sawmill.
Appreciate that the satisfaction of delivering the Chair’s activities will be greater than any remuneration package – however approved expenses will be paid.
Timetable
Following the untimely death of Lewis Scott in November 2021, Simon Burvill, a long serving Trustee, took on the role of the chair for a 12 month period up to the end of 2022. The incoming chair will benefit from a handover period with Simon prior to starting in the role.
The post is for two years but could be extended.
How to apply
Please send an expression of interest of no more than 750 words to Guy Corbett Marshall (Chief Executive) on (mywoodlandheritage@gmail.com) stating why this role appeals and how and why you would be the ideal Chair.
You are also invited to submit your latest CV.
If you have any queries please contact Kelly Morss our Finance, Administration and Membership Officer on office@woodlandheritage.org.
Expressions of interest with accompanying CV should be submitted before noon 31 May 2022.
It is expected that shortlisting will take place in week commencing 6 June 2022, with initial interviews to take place from 13 June 2022.