#WomenInForestry – meet Sanelisiwe Mbense
Mondi Forestry
Senior Silviculture Forester
Qualifications:
Forestry career: 7 years
As a senior forester, my job involves ensuring compliance to corporate governance, certification requirements, safety and health. I ensure operational performance and adherence to the annual plan of operations from various contractors, whilst improving productivity through innovation and optimizing cost efficiencies in all operations. My responsibilities also include financial management, as well as managing the performance and development of my staff. I am also responsible for ensuring data integrity of the compartment information database, fire protection and plantation security management. Stakeholder engagement is an integral part of my job which involves engaging with local communities, authorities and other relevant stakeholders.
WHY I LOVE WORKING IN THE FORESTRY SECTOR
Forestry is a fast-paced and complex environment, your mind is stretched and challenged every day by the dynamic situation. The aspect of being a contributor to a wide range of essential day-to-day products to the domestic and international market makes this field even more desirable for me. What is most satisfying is working in a sustainable and environmentally conscious industry.
MY ADVICE TO THOSE EXPLORING A CAREER IN FORESTRY
If you are interested in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment and you are a goal-oriented and results-driven individual, Forestry is for you. To thrive in Forestry you need to adapt to change and be able to work in multifaceted situations.
