The Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited (FHCL) has appointed Semi Dranibaka as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 September 2025.
FHCL Board Chairman Iowane Naiveli said the appointment was made at a Board meeting on 29 August.
Mr. Dranibaka, who previously served as General Manager since 2021, holds a Bachelor of Forest Science from the University of Melbourne, a Master of Science in Forestry from Southern Cross University, and a Professional Diploma in Business Leadership from USP.
He brings more than 34 years of experience in forestry, having worked with the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, and is a member of the Institute of Foresters of New Zealand & Australia.
“Mr. Dranibaka has been an invaluable asset to FHCL, demonstrating strong leadership and a deep commitment to the sustainable management of Fiji’s mahogany resources,” said Mr. Naiveli.
“We are immensely proud that he is the first local CEO appointed for FHCL — a milestone for both the company and national capacity building.”
The Board expressed confidence that under Mr. Dranibaka’s leadership, FHCL will continue to strengthen its operations, achieve international forest certification, and maximize the value of Fiji’s “Green Gold” — mahogany — for landowners, the forestry sector, and the nation’s economy.
