The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Shona Gawel as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from January 2027.
Ms Gawel joins AFPA following a highly successful tenure as Chief Executive Officer of GrainGrowers, where she led major strategic transformations, significantly elevated the organisation’s national advocacy profile, and delivered substantial value for members across Australia’s agricultural sector.
With extensive leadership experience spanning member-based organisations, national advocacy, and the public sector, Ms Gawel brings a proven track record of influencing public policy, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and driving sustainable organisational growth.
During her time at GrainGrowers, Ms Gawel successfully steered the organisation through complex policy environments ranging from supply chain resilience and sustainability frameworks to workforce participation initiatives while building trusted relationships across governments, regulators, and industry stakeholders.
Holding tertiary qualifications in business and communications, Ms Gawel has developed a reputation for leading high-performing teams through periods of growth and change.
Statement from AFPA Chair John McKillop: “We are delighted to welcome Shona as national CEO of AFPA. She is a trusted leader with an exceptional track record working with members, government and key stakeholders to improve industry outcomes at a national level. Her guidance will be invaluable as AFPA continues to advance the sustainable growth and interests of Australia’s forest products sector.”
Statement from incoming CEO Shona Gawel: “The forest products industry is central to Australia’s housing, climate, and regional economic agenda. I am thrilled to be joining AFPA at such a critical time and look forward to working alongside members, industry partners, and governments to ensure a strong, sustainable, and unified voice for the sector.”
AFPA warmly welcomes Ms Gawel to the leadership team as the association embarks on its next phase of growth and strategic advocacy. She will commence in the role in January, and we look forward to introducing her to our members and stakeholders during the first quarter of 2027.
