Sairusi has progressed through a range of senior roles with the Fiji Forestry Department and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community. He has a strong grounding in wood science through studies he undertook in the United Kingdom. Sairusi has excellent knowledge of forest operations and issues in the Pacific region and has a well developed network in the forestry sector. He was the head of the Fiji Forestry Department Timber Utilisation Research Division for a number of years before becoming the Deputy Conservator of Forests (Operations). During his time with the Timber Utilisation Research Division he had considerable involvement in coconut wood research as well in pine and mahogany, Fiji’s main plantation species. As the Forests and Trees Adviser, Sairusi is responsible for the effective management of the Forests and Trees Group of the SPC LRD, tasked with supporting and assisting the 22 SPC member countries and territories in enhancing their capacities to better manage their forest and tree resources.

Role in the Cocowood Improvement project

Sairusi provides a coordination role in ensuring that activities in the two project countries are implemented and funded in line with the project document. With his background and experience, he also provides technical advice and support as and when required.

Interests

Sairusi’s main interest is in community work through his involvement in his church activities.

He is also interested to see that this coconut project is successful; positively contributing to the Pacific island’s coconut industry revitalisation programmes.