Commencing in the role on 3 April 2023, Mark Rogers will replace current CEO David Brand, who will take on a new role as chair of New Forests, with the pair working on the transition together over the first quarter.
Mr Rogers initially joined New Forests as managing director for Australia and New Zealand in 2016 before adding the US to his responsibilities as senior managing director in 2019.
Prior to New Forests, he held senior leadership roles across other real asset companies where he was responsible for businesses and teams including acquisitions, distribution, project development and finance.
In addition to Mr Brand’s role as chair, the firm said he will work on strategic growth opportunities for New Forests, looking at new markets and new opportunities for the business in support of its senior executive team. He will continue to chair New Forests’ investment committees and remain as chair of New Forests until June 2025.
Mr Brand said: “Mark is a proven, strategic leader who has a deep understanding of our business, our culture and our vision, making him the ideal candidate to lead New Forests into its next stage of growth.
“He has demonstrated an outstanding track record across our Australian, New Zealand and United States businesses with a vision to see investment in land use and forestry as key to the transition to a sustainable future.
“After 17 years at the helm of New Forests, it is time for me to step down from the CEO role and do what I love doing most, and that is looking at strategic growth opportunities in new markets and new geographies.
“I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved growing from a handful of people in 2005 to over 100 staff in five countries, across 1.1 million hectares and $10 billion in assets under management.”
Mr Rogers commented: “I’m honoured to take on the role of CEO and look forward to continuing to cement our reputation as leaders in the natural capital investment space across developed and emerging markets.
“With the new shareholders Mitsui and Nomura providing growth capital and access to a global distribution platform, it’s an exciting time for New Forests.
“I wish to thank David for his vision, innovation and creating a culture of passionate, purpose-driven individuals.”
In September 2022, New Forests added a four-person team to lead its new business division, New Agriculture, with the aim to grow its agriculture portfolio globally.
