Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Joseph Lawrence as its new Executive Director. Dr Lawrence brings extensive experience in research collaboration, innovation, and industry development, having successfully led transformative initiatives across academia, government, and industry for over 20 years.
Dr Lawrence’s career highlights include senior executive roles at leading universities and government agencies. His expertise spans manufacturing, agrifood, energy, construction, digital, and health industries, and he is recognised for his ability to forge impactful collaborations that drive innovation and deliver tangible outcomes.
AFWI’s Board Chair, Bob Gordon, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting the rigorous selection process undertaken by a panel that included representation from AFWI, AFPA, and the University of Tasmania.
“After a thorough recruitment process, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr Joseph Lawrence as AFWI’s Executive Director,” Mr Gordon said.
“His impressive track record in fostering collaboration and delivering innovation makes him uniquely qualified to lead AFWI in achieving its ambitious goals. With the support of our Board of Directors and a team of expert staff, we are confident Joseph will help shape the future of the forestry and wood products sector.”
Dr Angela Castles, Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Tasmania, also welcomed the appointment.
“We are very pleased to have secured someone of Joseph’s calibre for the Executive Director role,” Dr Castles said.
“He brings a combination of executive experience across universities, government, and industry, as well as leadership in research and development, innovation, and sectoral partnerships. His strong engagement skills and clear vision for AFWI give us confidence he will hit the ground running and engage with our important industry partners early in his tenure.”
Dr Lawrence holds a PhD in Engineering Management from the University of Canterbury, where his research focused on business models for collaborative research centres. He also holds a technical MBA (MEM) and a Bachelor of Engineering. His career has been marked by numerous leadership achievements, including roles as Pro Vice-Chancellor at Federation University and Deakin University, where he spearheaded strategic initiatives for research and innovation.
Commenting on his new role, Dr Lawrence said:
“Joining AFWI at this pivotal moment for the organisation and the forestry and wood products sector is an incredible opportunity. My focus will be on strengthening partnerships between researchers, industry, and government to position AFWI as a leader in transformative, industry-led research,” he said.
“By advancing innovation and sustainability, we aim to deliver tangible benefits that directly support and grow the sector. I’m eager to collaborate with our partners to drive impactful outcomes that address the industry’s evolving challenges.”
Dr Lawrence’s appointment marks a new chapter for AFWI as it continues to drive transformative research and foster collaboration within the forestry and wood products sector. His extensive knowledge and leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s future and supporting the industry it serves.
In a statement released today to welcome Dr Lawrence to his new role, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins MP said:
“I am very pleased to announce Dr Lawrence’s appointment as the Executive Director of AFWI. Dr Lawrence’s experience and excellence in his field means AFWI is in extremely capable hands.
“AFWI has an important role to play in supporting research and innovation for the Australian forestry sector. Dr Lawrence will be a vital point of contact for industry and provide direction and security for both AFWI and the timber sector.
“I wish Dr Lawrence every success as he starts in his new role today.”
