National Timber Group (NTG) has appointed Joanne Thompson as Chief People Officer.

Thompson will lead on employee engagement, talent attraction and development, and ensuring consistency across the group in all aspects of HR. She has 25 years’ experience in all areas of human resources with a focus on talent management and driving commercial performance through the organisation’s people. 

Her career began at Marks & Spencer, where she worked for 22 years, followed by a move to cancer charity Macmillan, and latterly mobility solutions provider Zigup. She is a member of the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development).

Thompson said: “I’m excited to join National Timber Group and its 1,300 people in England and Scotland.

“The focus of my team and I will be colleague engagement so that all our people feel part of the future growth of the business. We want to create an inclusive place to work where all colleagues become problem solvers and see themselves developing their skills in a company where there is active progression.

“We aim to attract the very best people, not just from the timber industry, but from all sectors, and to engage, retain and reward the talent we have. My absolute focus is on our people, to support them and in turn, grow the business performance and culture. This business is changing positively, and this is an exciting time to be part of the future success of NTG.”

Thompson is a member of NTG’s executive team reporting to Group Chief Executive Scott Cairns.

Scott Cairns, NTG Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Joanne to NTG.

“The Group’s companies are all long-established specialists in timber. We’re proud of our heritage whilst also being a forward-thinking business where people can build their careers.

“This new position is all about the people in the business and how we can do the best for all our colleagues. Joanne brings a wealth of hands-on experience to the role and a level of enthusiasm and professionalism that will deliver a hugely interactive and fulfilling employee experience.”