Structural Timber Association appoints Iain McIlwee as Chief Executive Officer

The Structural Timber Association (STA) has appointed Iain McIlwee as its new Chief Executive Officer.  Iain will take up the role on 2nd November 2026, succeeding Andrew Orriss, who is stepping down after a long and distinguished career in the timber sector.

Iain joins the STA from the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS), where he has served as Chief Executive since 2018. During his tenure, he delivered sustained membership growth, established the FIS E-Learning Academy and strengthened the organisation’s research and policy capability. Today, FIS represents more than 600 companies operating across the finishes and interiors supply chain.

A Materials Engineering graduate, Iain brings almost three decades of experience supporting manufacturing and construction businesses. He is widely recognised for driving industry collaboration, championing skills and competence, advancing sustainability initiatives and helping shape regulatory reform. Alongside his work at FIS, he has been an active contributor to the Industry Competence Steering Group, Treasurer of the Conflict Avoidance Coalition and serves as a Non-Executive Director of SKA Rating, the sustainability assessment and certification scheme for fit-out projects.

Iain has strong roots in the timber sector, having spent seven years as Chief Executive of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). During that time, he oversaw membership growth of more than 40%, led the integration of organisations including the Wood Window Alliance and Timber Staircase Association and played a key role in establishing the Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI), helping to strengthen the collective voice of the timber supply chain.

Throughout his career, Iain has built a reputation for bringing organisations together, translating technical and regulatory complexity into practical business solutions, and ensuring trade associations deliver meaningful value to their members.

Brian Skilton, Chair of the STA Board, said:

“Iain brings a wealth of leadership experience from across the construction and manufacturing sectors, combined with a deep understanding of the timber industry. He has a strong track record of building member-focused organisations, influencing policy and delivering change. The Board is delighted to welcome him to the STA and looks forward to working with him as the association enters its next phase of development.”

Outgoing CEO Andrew Orriss said:

“I am delighted to welcome Iain as our new CEO at what is an exciting time for the structural timber sector.

It has been an honour to lead the STA, and I wish Iain, the team and all our members every success for the future.”

Iain McIlwee said:

“The structural timber sector has a significant opportunity to shape the future of UK construction, and the STA has a critical role in supporting and championing that ambition. My priority will be to work closely with members, partners and the team to build on the Association’s strong foundations, strengthen its influence and ensure it continues to deliver real value for members. I’m looking forward to getting started and meeting members across the sector in the months ahead.”

As the Board welcomes Iain, it would also like to thank Andrew for his significant contribution to the STA since joining the organisation as Chief Operating Officer in 2019. During his time with the association, he strengthened operational performance, led the development of STA Assure, and, more recently, oversaw the successful transition from a consultant-led organisation to a staff-led one during his tenure as Interim Chief Executive.

Thanks to Andrew’s dedication, leadership and commitment, the STA is well positioned for the future. He will remain with the association in a support role, working alongside the Board and Iain to ensure a smooth and effective transition.