James Pendlebury, BSc, PhD

 

Chief Executive

Email: james.pendlebury@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

Tel: +44 (0)131 445 2176
Tel direct: +44 (0)131 445 8710
Fax: +44 (0)131 445 5124

Address:
Forest Research
Northern Research Station
Roslin
Midlothian EH25 9SY
UK

James has had a distinguished career in research, management and market development in the timber and forestry sectors in several countries. He holds a BSc Honours degree in forestry and a PhD, both from Aberdeen University, the latter for his thesis on the preservation characteristics of tropical hardwood species from Malaysia. He has held timber research positions in several countries, including the UK, United States, South Africa and New Zealand.

James has also been head of the TNO Centre for Timber Research in The Netherlands and more recently Chief Executive of Highland Birchwoods in Scotland.

Since joining the Forestry Commission in 2002, James has held several posts, including Business Policy Advisor for Forestry Commission Scotland and a period on secondment to the Scottish Government’s Renewables Policy Team. His most recent post was as Head of the Forestry Commission's team of Specialist Advisors.

Current role

Chief Executive

James is responsible for the scientific direction and management of staff and research programmes. He ensures that Forest Research provides appropriate research and technical services to the GB Forestry Commission. These in turn support the needs of FC England, FC Scotland and FC Wales, the three national administrations, Northern Ireland Forest Service and the forestry and landuse sectors.

He is also required to ensure that Forest Research meets its statutory obligations as a government agency.

Affiliations and achievements

• Graduate of the Cabinet Office Leaders UK programme to develop collaborative leadership skills for public service excellence.
• Member of the Institute of Wood Science.
• Member of the Institute of Directors.
• Member of the International Research Group on Wood Preservation.

Main recent publications

James has authored or co-authored 38 international publications, conference papers and refereed scientific papers.  He has also contributed to 44 research or contract reports and co-authored 4 international patents.