Andrew Sowerby is a Chartered Forester with over 20 years’ experience in UK forestry, specialising in sustainable woodland management, harvesting operations, and strategic land use planning. He joined the PEFC UK Board to support the advancement of responsible forest management and certification.
Professional Background
Andrew is Operations Director at Bronwin & Abbey where he leads a team of forest managers and consultants across Wales and England. With a background spanning both public and private sector roles, he brings a deep understanding of silvicultural systems, forest planning, and operational delivery at scale..
- Delivers against UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) and UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS)
- Over 20 years in forestry, including senior roles at Forestry Commission Wales and Natural Resources Wales
- Extensive experience managing teams, contracts, and compliance across diverse landscapes
- Leads complex projects involving woodland creation, restocking, harvesting, and civil engineering
Sector Leadership
Andrew is committed to forestry that delivers for people, nature, and the economy. He plays an active role in national forestry leadership and policy development.
- Vice President, Institute of Chartered Foresters (elected to succeed as President in 2025)
- Former Chair, Confor Wales and member of the UK advisory council
- Advisor to Tir Pontypridd, a community land trust.
- Chair of trustees, 12th Pontypridd & 1st Cilfynydd Scout Group
Project and Contract Expertise
Andrew’s work is rooted in practical delivery, informed by a strong technical base and a collaborative leadership style.
- Leads contract management and competitive procurement for harvesting and civil engineering
- Designs and oversees large-scale planting and harvesting programmes
- Experienced in risk management, health & safety standards, and accident investigation
- Delivered Wales’ first full Environmental Impact Assessment for afforestation (2017)
- Developed national Forest Design Planning guidance for Forestry Commission GB
Skills and Qualifications
Andrew combines deep technical forestry knowledge with strong leadership, project management and communication skills.
- Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Foresters (FICFor)
- BSc (Hons) in Forest Management, University of Aberdeen
- Exchange year at University of British Columbia, Canada
- Fluent Welsh speaker
- Experienced in stakeholder engagement, consultation, and change management
Commitment to PEFC
Andrew is passionate about sustainable forest management that meets both environmental and economic needs. Through his role at PEFC UK, he brings his practical expertise, policy insight, and leadership experience to support the certification system and wider forestry sector.
