Inverness estate agency appoints forestry expert
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
As Highland forestry continues to be a draw for investors, international estate agency Savills has appointed associate director Bill Stalker as head of forestry in the north of Scotland.
Based in the Inverness office, Mr Stalker will advise a diverse range of clients on all aspects of commercial forestry and woodland management, including rural estates, farmers, public bodies and commercial forestry investors.
Mr Stalker previously worked for Tilhill, Bowlts and Estover Energy in a range of forest management roles, holding several senior positions. A chartered forester with a Masters degree in land economy, he worked as an estate stalker for 17 years before retraining to pursue a forestry career.
“I am delighted to be joining Savills , strengthening the forestry team and adding further professional services to the Inverness rural team," Mr Stalker said.
"The Savills forestry and rural team provide management services to a wide range of clients throughout the Highlands and Grampian, having worked in north and north east of Scotland for over 30 years I look forward to supporting Savills' clients and providing professional forestry services.”
Faye Gonzalez, head of Savills Inverness, commented: “We are extremely pleased to be welcoming Bill to the Inverness team, servicing the North East of Scotland. He has an extensive background in management and contracting within the woodland sector, which will be of great benefit to our client base. His broad-ranging experience, coupled with a strong understanding of traditional agricultural and sporting estates, perfectly complements our existing capabilities and further enhances the service we can provide our clients.”
Andy Greathead, head of Savills UK forestry management department, which consults on 40,000 hectares of woodland the length of Britain, added: “Forestry is increasing in importance to Scotland’s rural economy with an annual economic contribution of almost £1 billion and employing over 25,000 people. Bill brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team that will ensure we are able to continue to grow the forestry business in Scotland.”
Savills' latest research on the sector reveals the value of the UK forestry investment market is continuing its upward trend and is now valued at over £121 million. During the 2019 forest year, the average gross forest value increased by 17 per cent, an increase of 25 per cent per net productive hectare.
