Welcoming Tom Lupton, the new Chair of the International Tree Foundation

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Tom Lupton as the new Chair of Trustees for ITF.  

Tom has joined the International Tree Foundation as Chair following a long career in forestry and agriculture. Most recently, he has chaired a company developing new technologies for plant and animal pest and disease control, mainly for use in agriculture. 

Before then, he was responsible for agricultural and forestry investments across the globe, in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Australia. This followed 28 years working in Asia and Africa in natural resources business management.  

Tom has honed many management skills throughout his career, from strategy to finance, investment to governance. He has also lived in Eswatini and Tanzania, giving him on-the-ground experience and a great interest in our work in Africa, restoring forests and empowering local people. Meanwhile, his love of forestry makes him a natural fit for the role at the International Tree Foundation. 

Tom at Nyika tree nursery in Malawi

Tom officially became the Chair of ITF at the Annual General Meeting on Thursday 13th June. Speaking of his appointment, Tom says, “I have had a lifelong love of trees and the privilege of being involved in tree planting initiatives in both Africa and the UK. The opportunity to join ITF seems a natural fit, and a great way to put my skills and time to good use.

Left to right, James Whitehouse - CEO, Tom Lupton - Chair, Mercy Kimani - Kenya Programmes Manager, Wycliffe Matika - Africa Programmes Manager

“ITF does important work planting trees for the benefit of humanity and the environment. I am looking forward to becoming part of its highly professional team and working with ITF to develop innovative ways to deliver the benefits of trees as widely as possible.” 

Tom is taking over from Stephen Vickers who, after four years as Chair, will remain on the board. We are grateful for Stephen’s thoughtful leadership during the last four years which has seen ITF grow from strength to strength.  

ITF’s Chief Executive, James Whitehead said, “We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have had such excellent leadership from Stephen Vickers and now to have someone with such high calibre as Tom Lupton joining ITF. His extensive senior level experience and deep understanding of social and environmental work in Africa will stand the charity in good stead as we move forward with our ambitious plans to plant, protect and promote trees for the benefit of people and planet.”