One of the most well-respected executives in the forest products industry recently announced his pending retirement. Mark Barford, the executive director of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA), will be stepping down this summer as he starts his own consulting practice.
Barford is familiar to many in the pallet and low-grade lumber industries since he has spoken at many meetings and has been a key ally on hardwood lumber issues. Barford has been with the NHLA for ten years, and through that time, he has directed the association through a significant change in its branding and focus.
Barford recalled, “I really tried to focus on spreading the impact of the NHLA internationally as well as led a rebranding effort for the organization. We developed remote training for lumber graders in other countries, and I worked with the American Hardwood Export Council to extend the influence of U.S. hardwoods around the globe.”
According to Barford, when he first came to NHLA, the organization was focused more on domestic markets and getting people internationally to buy U.S. hardwoods instead of convincing other countries to use NHLA grading standards. Barford explained, “The NHLA went in a new direction where we focused on sharing our rules in the hopes that they would become the world’s standards.”
Barford said that he is thankful for the support he has received from NHLA members as he seeks to develop a consulting practice and look at other opportunities in the forest products sector. Our staff has worked with Barford through the years and believe he is one of the best leaders the hardwood industry has ever had. From his integrity to his strong relationships and ability to institute change, Barford has created stability at the NHLA after a series of upper management changes.
“The NHLA Board would like to acknowledge the contributions Mark Barford made during his ten years as an ambassador for the NHLA. We sincerely thank him for his dedicated service,” stated Brent Stief, vice president of the NHLA Board of Managers.
In selecting its new top executive, the NHLA has tapped a woman for that role for the first time in the organization’s 118-year history. Lorna Christie brings significant marketing expertise to the role having worked with the agriculture, food and other markets in association management and communication.
I am honored to call Mark a friend, and I believe he has made an immeasurable impact on the hardwood market from his time at the NHLA as well as the Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers Inc. and the Virginia Forest Products Association. If you would like to share your well wishes to Mark Barford, he can be reached at m.barford@nhla.com.
