The awards dinner was held at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Edinburgh this week and was Confor’s largest ever awards dinner.
Michael Cresswell of Natural Resources Wales, was named as Future Leader in a very strong field, with EGGER’s Mike Yerbury also commended by the judges for his leadership within his own business and across the wider industry. The category was sponsored by James Jones & Sons Ltd in memory of Tom A Bruce-Jones.
David Leslie, Joint Managing Director, said “I’m delighted to present this award in memory of Tom A Bruce-Jones and congratulate Michael. He clearly shows the ability to become a future leader in the industry whilst excelling in his contribution to lead individuals in his current role. Congratulations also to the runners up who, from a shortlist of eleven, competed in an extremely strong category, which is encouraging for the future of the industry going forward.”
Michael said “ What a huge honour and privilege to receive the Future Forestry Leader Award at the 2022 Confor awards dinner. Congratulations to all those who were nominated, shortlisted and the other recipients of their respective awards. An inspiring time to be in this industry, full of excellent people changing attitudes, innovating and leading for the future.”
Judges said they had been impressed by the leadership qualities of Mr Creswell, as both Forestry Operations Team Leader with Natural Resources Wales and through his roles with the Institute of Chartered Foresters. They said he was “passionate about supporting young professionals."
Stuart Goodall, CEO of Confor, said: “I’m delighted to have been able to honour such worthy winners at our biggest-ever award dinner and would like to congratulate Laura, Matt and Michael for winning our ‘new’ awards. All three categories had really strong shortlists and it is great to see such amazing talent driving our industry forward - brilliant innovators, skilled communicators and superb future leaders."