In memoriam Jan Heino

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jan Erik Heino, an exceptional forest policymaker and diplomat, and steadfast advocate for forest science.

Born on July 22, 1947, in Liljendal, Finland, Jan Heino’s career exemplified unparalleled leadership in the forestry sector. He held prominent roles in both the public and private sectors, including as Director General of the Forestry Department at Finland's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Director General of the Finnish State Forest Enterprise Metsähallitus, Assistant Director-General and Head of the Forestry Department at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and Chair of the Collaborative Partnership on Forests. In these positions, Jan played a pivotal role in shaping and promoting sustainable forest management policies and practices both in Finland and internationally.

Jan’s contributions to IUFRO were equally significant. During his tenure as Assistant Director-General for Forestry, FAO and IUFRO celebrated the sixtieth anniversary of their collaboration at the XIII World Forestry Congress in 2009 and signed an agreement that further strengthened the collaboration between the two organizations. Jan also chaired an independent review initiated by the IUFRO Management Committee, which facilitated the adaptation and reorientation of IUFRO’s strategic priorities. Additionally, in his voluntary role as IUFRO Development Officer, Jan was deeply involved in expanding IUFRO’s donor network. In recognition of his exceptional service, he was awarded the IUFRO Special Recognition Award in 2016.

The IUFRO community has lost a distinguished and immensely supportive colleague. He will be profoundly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Elvi, his children, and their families during this difficult time.