Creating and conserving England’s largest new native broadleaf woodland would not be possible without our dedicated and hardworking team. Meet our newest trustee, Jonathan Smith.

Joined the charity as a trustee

September 2025

Why did you choose to give your time and get involved with the charity?

I like being able to give back, and volunteering to be a trustee is a great way to do so. The Heart of England Forest is unique, and I love its long-term aim and vision.

Q&A 

What expertise do you bring to the trustee role?

I'm a finance professional and have served as a trustee of various charities for several years, bringing a combination of finance and governance experience, as well as a fresh perspective as someone new to the Heart of England Forest.

What aspect of the charity’s work interests you the most?

I'm a city boy – I grew up in Birmingham and have lived in Manchester and London. I moved to Stratford-upon-Avon a few years ago, so getting involved in something so linked to the countryside and the local rural economy is very new to me and utterly fascinating.

How do you think the Heart of England Forest is making the most difference?

Its vision for a forest and the vital role that genuine rural forestry and farming spaces, which are well-managed and at the heart of the local area, is so important.

What are the challenges facing the charity over the next 12 months?

Whether things can move as quickly as we'd like. The vision is there, but making such a vision a reality is always a challenge – especially so with what the charity wants to achieve.

What 3 words would you use to describe the work of the Forest?

The great outdoors!