About WPA
The Wood Processors Association of New Zealand (WPA) represents companies responsible for the primary processing of between 75 to 80 percent of New Zealand's wood. With annual export earnings of $3.2 billion and domestic sales of $1.5 billion, the forestry and wood processing industry is New Zealand's third largest export earner.
Members of WPA include those involved in the manufacture of pulp and paper, engineered wood products, sawn lumber and the fabrication of frames and trusses.
WPA also has a significant number of Affiliate Members. Affiliates are organisations that provide products and support services to the industry. WPA activity engages with its Affiliate Members seeking their views and opinions and invites Affiliates to member conferences and technical workshops, where relevant.
Governance
The Wood Processors Association is an incorporated society and is governed by a board of member-elected Directors.
The Chair is Brian Stanley.
Staff
WPA currently employs two full time staff, as well as a Senior Policy Analyst on a contract basis.
- Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jon Tanner
- Executive Assistant & Financial Business Manager Jeanette Sutherland
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jon Tanner
Jon Tanner has spent the last 20 years working in primary industry in New Zealand, Asia, Africa and Europe. Originally from a farming background, Jon has experience as a Science Manager, director of public policy and as a CEO of primary industry bodies.
Jon’s interests lie in enhancing the ability of sectors to add value to commodity products and to grow markets. He believes that firmly uniting effort across the sector and harnessing new knowledge will ensure that wood processing continues to be a strong contributor to New Zealand’s economic performance.
Executive Assistant & Financial Business Manager Jeanette Sutherland
Jeanette Sutherland is the Executive Assistant to Jon Tanner (CEO) and Financial Business Manager. Jeanette has a background in nursing before gaining extensive administration and financial experience as a Practice Manager in a medical field before coming to WPA.
Jeanette also holds the responsibility of Board Secretary to The Wood Processors' Association of New Zealand supporting the Board and it's wider membership.
The Frame and Truss Manufacturers Association of New Zealand and the Wood Council of New Zealand are also supported by Jeanette's role as secretariat for both Associations.
