Chris Sutton became Chair of PEFC UK in October 2024. He brings over 40 years of hands-on commercial experience in the timber industry. Known for his strategic thinking, people-first leadership, and deep industry knowledge, Chris continues to champion sustainability and responsible sourcing.
Career in Timber
Chris built his career at James Latham Plc, one of the UK’s leading timber distributors. At just 29, he became a divisional director. He joined the Lathams Limited board in 1997 and the Plc board in 2005.
As CEO of Lathams Limited, Chris led the company’s expansion across the UK and Ireland. He drove growth through a combination of acquisitions and organic development, and built a high-performing, customer-focused team. He stepped down in March 2019 after more than four decades with the business.
Leadership and Advisory Roles
Since retiring from full-time executive work, Chris has supported a wide range of timber and sustainability ventures in advisory, consultancy, and non-executive roles. These include:
- Decospan (Belgium) – 2-year consultancy
- Halcon (Spain) – Project for SK Capital
- Accsys Technologies – Strategic projects
- Moralt AG (Germany) – Ongoing advisor
- TENSEI Ltd – Acting Chair (2019–2020)
- Unwasted – Non-executive director and stakeholder
- Pacific Rim Wood UK Ltd – Current role
- Halspan Ltd – Current role
Chris also played a key role in the 2021 listing of Foresight Sustainable Forestry Company Plc on the London Stock Exchange. He served on its board until July 2024.
Sector Influence
Chris continues to shape the UK timber industry. As a board member of the Timber Trade Federation, he led the merger with TRADA. This led to the creation of Timber Development UK (TDUK), where he now serves as Chair.
He also spent three years on the National Forest Commercial Advisory Panel and remains an active Ambassador for the National Forest.
Skills and Qualifications
Chris is recognised for his leadership style—positive, empowering, and collaborative. His strengths include:
- Strategic planning and growth leadership
- Sales, marketing, and distribution expertise
- Strong stakeholder and supplier networks
- Full P&L and board-level experience
- Media trained and confident in public-facing roles
He holds two formal qualifications:
- CMIWSc – Certificated Member of the Institute of Wood Science
- WSET Level 2 – Wine and Spirit Education Trust
Role at PEFC UK
Chris joined the PEFC UK Board in October 2024 for a three-year term. He also contributes to the organisation’s Finance Committee.
He is committed to helping grow awareness and adoption of certification. With a passion for sustainable forestry and a global network, Chris is focused on connecting the wider timber industry with responsible sourcing from the ground up.
