Features
Spotlight on excellence: Bhavjit Thandi

In our 11th edition of the Top 20 Under 40 award, Canadian Forest Industries is shining a spotlight on the next-gen leaders who are making waves in our industry. These young champions are not just rising stars – they’re innovators, change-makers, mentors, and community builders. Over the next 20 weeks, we’ll introduce you to each of the 2023 winners.

Today, let’s get to know Bhavjit Thandi, chief financial officer at Richmond Plywood Corp. in Richmond, B.C.

The 36-year-old CFO and corporate secretary stands out within the company where the average age of employees is between 50 to 60 years old. Bhavjit is also the youngest on the executive team.

“Bhavjit has played a crucial role in progressing Richmond Plywood’s mill through financial management, streamlining operations and rationalizing production. He is a very motivated, goal-oriented individual that is not afraid to think out of the box to create solutions to issues. He is a key player on the executive management team that always keeps everyone engaged on new ideas and projects,” says chairman Pardeep Brar.

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Bhavjit constantly sets the bar high for his finance team and is always looking for ways to improve efficiencies and reduce costs. He also actively seeks new opportunities for funding, training and education for the 350+ workers in the plywood mill.

He is usually one of the last to leave the office and one of the first in. Brar says the company has seen a reduction in staff turnover, attributing it to Bhavjit’s leadership style, adding that the office atmosphere has changed as Bhavjit has introduced various was to engage the office staff such as staff recognition days.

Next week we will showcase the achievements of winner Devon Wilkins.