The 
BC Forest Safety Council (BCFSC) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Cherie Whelan as BCFSC’s new Chief Executive Officer effective April 1, 2026.
Cherie brings extensive experience and leadership to the role. She served as CEO of the Newfoundland & Labrador Construction Safety Association for two years and previously held the position of Director, SAFE Companies (2016–2022) at BCFSC. Cherie is widely recognized as a health and safety champion and is highly regarded for her deep knowledge of industry challenges. Cherie aligns with BCFSC’s commitment to eliminating fatalities and serious injuries in both harvesting and manufacturing.
Cherie will succeed Rob Moonen, who announced his retirement in October 2025.
“We extend our thanks to Rob for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of forestry workers,” said D’Arcy Henderson, Chair of the BCFSC Board of Directors. “Rob’s integrity, vision and collaborative spirit have left an enduring mark on the Council and the industry. We thank him for his service and the legacy he leaves behind.”
Cherie brings over 20 years of experience and a proven track record of success in the safety sector. Throughout her distinguished career, she has held numerous leadership roles, consistently demonstrating strategic vision, innovative thinking and a commitment to advancing safety practices.
Her expertise spans strategic leadership and board governance, with strengths in operations, program management, human resources, financial management, stakeholder engagement, risk management, marketing, communications and revenue development. She is passionate about team empowerment, fostering a strong culture of safety and collaborating with key stakeholders. Her experience includes working with cross-functional, regional and provincial teams to deliver comprehensive health, safety and environmental initiatives.
Please join us in welcoming Cherie Whelan as our new CEO. We are confident that under her leadership, BCFSC will continue to thrive and achieve new heights in delivering safety training and advisory services to British Columbia’s forest industry.
“We greatly appreciate the number and quality of applications received and thank every applicant for their time and consideration, and for being part of a process that has allowed us to secure who we believe is the best candidate for the job,” said D’Arcy.