Mark Pearson

After five meaningful and rewarding years, I’ve officially retired as Executive Director of the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF-IFC). As I reflect on this chapter, I’m filled with gratitude. After 35 years in the federal public service and 20 years as an executive, I took on this role at the CIF-IFC with a desire to contribute to something I deeply care about. The past five years have been both challenging and transformational. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an incredible community of dedicated volunteers, National Office team, and sector leaders. Together, we’ve navigated change, strengthened the Institute’s foundation, and helped position the organization for the future. In that time, I’ve seen the potential for CIF-IFC—and the sector—to be a national leader in inclusive, science-informed, sustainable forestry practices. The groundwork is there: greater collaboration, emerging leadership, and growing awareness of the role sustainable forestry plays in climate resilience and community well-being.