The new Director of Native Forests Operations for Forests NSW has extensive forest industry experience in government and private industry.

He is Erle Robinson, who will initially be based at the Native Forests Operations headquarters in Coffs Harbour.

"Erle has qualifications in forestry and public policy and many years of experience in managing forestry operations in New Zealand," said Forests NSW chief executive Nick Roberts.

He joins Forests NSW from Watercare Services where he has most recently been operations manager in charge of the $450 million upgrade of their Auckland facilities.

"Prior to this he held various senior management roles with Fletcher Challenge Forests including harvesting, planning and operations management responsibility for forests in the North and South islands," Mr Roberts said.

"Previously he worked for the NZ Forest Service in both plantations and native forests.

"Erle has also had significant experience representing the forest industry most notably as President of New Zealand Forest Owners' Association which represents 90 forest owners in New Zealand.

"In that role he provided a leadership and advocacy role to government, other industry sectors, environmental groups and the public.

"Erle brings a wealth of forestry experience to Forests NSW with a strong commercial focus and sensitivity to environmental and community issue."

Media contact: Howard Spencer, 02 6656 8825 or 0428 696 672