The Institute of Chartered Foresters was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Tom Jenkins MBE FICFor, a long‑standing member whose commitment both to professional standards and the ICF spanned more than thirty years.
Tom gave sustained and thoughtful service to the Institute throughout his career. Most notably, he served for 16 years on the Professional and Educational Standards Committee, helping to shape the frameworks that underpin chartership, accreditation and professional conduct. His contribution over that period was marked by intellectual rigour, quiet authority and a strong sense of responsibility to both the profession and the public interest.
He brought to the Institute a rare combination of technical expertise, academic insight and practical experience. Colleagues valued his ability to engage constructively with complex issues, to challenge where necessary, and to do so with generosity and respect. Tom was particularly committed to maintaining robust, credible standards while ensuring they remained relevant in a changing professional and policy context.
In December 2023, Tom was awarded an MBE for services to forestry. He was nominated by the Institute in recognition of three decades of contribution to the profession, including his extensive voluntary service to the Institute and his leadership in professional education and standards.
Alongside his comprehensive work with the Institute, Tom held senior roles with Forest Research, latterly as Head of Forest Research in Wales, and previously worked in higher education at Bangor University. These roles informed and strengthened his involvement with the Institute, helping to bridge research, education and professional practice.
Following a preliminary diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease in 2020, Tom also became a committed advocate and campaigner, demonstrating the same clarity of purpose and integrity that characterised his professional life.
Louise Simpson, Executive Director of the ICF, commented:
“Tom will be remembered by the Institute with deep respect and gratitude. His exceptional contributions have left a lasting imprint on the standards and values that define the profession today. He was a thoughtful, principled and generous colleague, and a true friend of the Institute. Our thoughts are with his wife Rowan, his children, and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
