Surrey, B.C. May 21, 2008 – After detailed review of more than fifty applicants, BCLNA’s hiring panel (an ad-hoc committee of the association’s past presidents) announced that a new executive director has been selected to head the BCLNA team.

Werner Knittel comes to the BCLNA from the BC Division of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, where he served as Vice President for eight years.  There he was responsible for strategic and operational leadership, service programs, outreach activities, advocacy, and government and media relations.  His experience, augmented by degrees in Business Administration (SFU) and Political Science (UVic), is anticipated to be invaluable to the BCLNA and its increasingly important role in the horticulture industry.

“We are pleased to have Werner join the BCLNA,” said Fred Giesbrecht, BCLNA President. “Our association plays an important role in the ornamental horticulture industry and in our environment.  It has a positive and dynamic relationship with our communities, garden groups, partners, and policy makers.  We are confident that Werner’s extensive background as a liaison between government, industry, and the public will build on these relationships.  The board and hiring committee feel strongly that he will bring a new standard of excellence to the BCLNA, and will provide the right leadership to continue to move the association forward.”

Jane Stock, BCLNA’s retiring Executive Director, commented, “As a result of a consistently strong team of membership, board and staff, the BCLNA has made impressive changes during the thirteen years that I have been privileged to serve.  I am delighted with Mr. Knittel’s selection, as it is time for new ideas, new direction and new development.  I look forward to supporting his initiatives in whatever capacity I am able, once my health issues are resolved.”

Knittel officially joined the BCLNA on May 12.