Mondi

Senior silviculture forester

Qualifications:

• National Diploma in Forestry
• BTech in Forestry
• International Leadership and Development Programme from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management
• BCom Financial Management (under way)

Forestry career: 13 years

My day-to-day tasks involve anything from financial, health and safety compliance, corporate governance and compliance with FSC, ISO and NOSA certification requirements, to overseeing operational performance and silviculture contractors. I am also responsible for the integrity of the compartments’ information database, fire protection and security management. As a senior forester, I compile and ensure adherence to the annual plan of operations, encouraging continuous improvement and the development of the staff reporting to me. Stakeholder engagement is an on-going activity and sees me liaise with communities, local authorities and other interested stakeholders.

WHY I LOVE WORKING IN THE FORESTRY SECTOR

Forestry is not stagnant — every day comes with exciting challenges and we have to adapt and devise solutions to resolve some unique and complex issues. Providing sustainable forest products for the public is gratifying. This aspect is so fulfilling and makes me love my job more every day.

MY ADVICE TO THOSE EXPLORING A CAREER IN FORESTRY

Forestry is like any other profession; one needs to adopt a good work ethic and be willing to deliver like anybody else. Strive for personal development to enable your growth in the industry. Women can do any job they aspire to do.