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HVP Plantations’ new CEO

Melanie Cook

HVP Plantations has appointed Melanie Cook as its new CEO, after an extensive search following the retirement of Stephen Ryan in October last year. Source: Timberbiz

Ms Cook will begin in the role in April, bringing with her a wealth of experience from a 25-year career with ExxonMobil.

HVP Board Chair Therese Ryan said Ms Cook’s appointment was an exciting move, citing her experience and background complement the company’s direction.

“We are thrilled to welcome Melanie, whose extensive experience, strategic vision and leadership ability makes her the ideal person to guide HVP Plantations through the evolving landscape of the timber industry,” Ms Ryan said.

Ms Cook held many roles at ExxonMobil, highlighted by Chief Operating Officer in Malaysia and President and CEO in Indonesia, before returning to Australia in 2021 where she led her own consultancy business specialising in Leadership and Energy.

She holds a Bachelor of Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Mathematics from the University of Melbourne.

Interim CEO Josie Pane will work closely with Ms Cook to ensure a smooth transition, before resuming her role as CFO.