FSC International Welcomes Marion Barriskell as Chief Operating Officer

FSC International is pleased to announce the appointment of Marion Barriskell as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective on 15 October 2024. In this role, Marion will lead FSC’s global operations, focusing on driving operational efficiency, leveraging technological innovation, and creating value across the organization.

With more than 20 years of experience leading successful transformation programmes  in large, complex organizations, Marion has held prominent positions at organizations such as CGIAR, British Council, and KPMG, where she successfully delivered operational improvements that unlocked new growth and innovation potential.

Marion’s vision for FSC focuses on enhancing agility and operational excellence and utilizing cutting-edge technology to streamline processes and empower decision-making. She believes that freeing teams from the more repetitive tasks will allow them to focus on delivering higher quality outcomes and value for both the organization and its global membership.

FSC’s Director General Subhra Bhattacharjee stated, “Marion’s appointment marks an exciting and transformative chapter for FSC International as the organization looks ahead to enhancing its operational capabilities to support its long-term vision for global sustainability and responsible forest management”.

"How we move forward is critical in this era of climate change and increasing pressure on resources and people," Marion said. "This is a pivotal moment for organizations like FSC to adapt, innovate, and deliver meaningful impact. I am deeply committed to ensuring that we use our resources in the most efficient and thoughtful way, to continue FSC’s drive for responsible forest management".

As COO, Marion’s immediate priority is to work closely with the international Board of Directors, global membership, and colleagues across FSC, to assess and enhance the organization’s operational strategies. Her leadership will focus on optimizing processes and creating tangible value for FSC’s stakeholders. "My focus is not just on operations, but on how we can add real value to FSC as a whole, and by extension, to the local and indigenous communities we work with globally," she emphasized.

A Personal Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

Marion’s passion for environmental stewardship is deeply personal. “My love for trees goes beyond just the professional sphere,” Marion explained. “Planting indigenous trees and working to preserve biodiversity is something I’m passionate about in my own life. Being part of FSC means I can contribute to this on a global scale, helping to protect forests and natural ecosystems worldwide.”