BOSTON: After 39 years in the timber industry John Tong, senior vice president upgrading and distribution of Finnforest, decided to take early retirement on 31 December 2009.
Mr Tong started his career as a trainee at Montague L Meyer (Hull), in 1970. He held various roles but has spent the past 26 years with the same company, becoming vice president of Finnforest UK, then managing director, a position he held until March 2006 when he was promoted to senior vice president for Finnforest's upgrading and distribution operations across Europe.
Mr Tong was also both vice president and president of the Timber Trade Federation for over five years, where he brought much needed control, stability and policy direction.
"It has been an honour and a pleasure to work in such a dynamic and exciting industry," he said. "I've made many friends along the way and very much appreciate the support they have shown me over the years.
"The industry has come a long way since the early days and I hope I have played my part in its development. I would like to say a huge 'thank-you' to everyone I know, everyone that has supported me and I wish them all the very best for the future," he added.
Mr Tong will be replaced by Joni Lukkaroinen, who said: "John has been a major figure in the UK timber industry and he will be missed."
