New Forests promotes Rogers to CEO

Global sustainability investment manager specialising in nature-based real assets, New Forests, has announced a change in leadership, with Mark Rogers taking on the chief executive role and replacing David Brand who will be the new Chair.

Rogers first joined the firm in 2016 as Managing Director, Australia, New Zealand and also became Senior Managing Director for the United States in 2019, leading the investments and business lines in the two regions and heading teams across acquisitions, operations and analytics.

Brand, who will remain as Chair of New Forests until June 2025, will be responsible for discovering and developing strategic and new growth opportunities to support New Forests’ senior executive team. He will also continue to chair the firm’s investment committees.

“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,” Brand said.

“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.

“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 Australia, 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.”

Under the leadership of Rogers, New Forests’ assets under management have grown from around AUD$3 billion to almost AUD$10 billion today.

“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,” Rogers said.

“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.”

Rogers will commence in the new role on 3 April 2023.