October 2025. Professor James Pendlebury

What is the 'day job?'

I’m Chief Executive and Accounting Officer of Forest Research, the research agency of the Forestry Commission, and Great Britain’s principal organisation for forestry and tree-related research. Forest Research is known nationally and internationally for providing robust and innovative science, research, evidence, data and services that support sustainable forestry.

What do you do outside of the Trust?

I’m a keen gardener, angler and season ticket holder at Newcastle United FC. My home is near Tain in the Highlands and, therefore, I have wonderful opportunities for walking my dogs on the superb beaches and in the many fantastic woodlands we have in Easter Ross.

How long have you been involved with The Scottish Forestry Trust?

I was made a Trustee in 2022.

Why did you become a Trustee?

As a forester and scientist, I want to help encourage the next generation of forest scientists to develop and explore new horizons. The Scottish Forestry Trust is in a unique position to provide this support. So getting involved was a no-brainer. Indeed, judging by the high quality of the research we help fund, it was the right decision. 

How do you view the role of a board member? What motivates you?

I think our two key responsibilities are to maintain and, preferably, grow the funds we manage responsibly and to make sure we invest them wisely in groundbreaking research that develops the next cohort of forest scientists.

What do you bring to the Trust?

Enthusiasm and too many years’ experience in research management to mention. In my day job, I deal with forest science in all its guises and, as such, I think I can help support and encourage early-career scientists to explore their ideas and push our sector’s boundaries.

What do you gain from involvement with the Trust?

Exposure to new ideas and the challenges involved in managing a charity, including growing the funds available to support future forest research. One of the most enjoyable parts of this role has been attending our research symposium, where we learn about the projects we’re supporting. Having the chance to discuss these projects with the scientists involved is hugely rewarding. These are some of the best events I attend and I’m heartened by the talent coming through into our sector. It bodes well for the future of our industry.

In your opinion, what are the most important challenges and opportunities facing the Trust?

Growing the Trust’s funds, while making sure we achieve value-for-money. We also need to achieve as much leverage as we can for our investment. Most importantly, our work allows us to find and support the new talent out there, exploring the new challenges we face as a sector – from climate change impacts to tree diseases, market development and technological change.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about over the next 12 months?

Besides my team’s performance in the Champions League, I’m really energised by the outputs from the work we’re supporting. I’m also anticipating the many great new ideas and requests for support we’ll receive, as these always test our understanding and thinking, and that’s what science is all about.