The International Wood Products Association hired Cindy Squires as its new executive vice president, replacing Brent McClendon.

Squires has served as the chief counsel for public affairs and director of regulatory affairs for the National Marine Manufacturers Association since 2003, where she directed its regulatory, legal, and trade programs. She also oversaw the operation of the NMMA’s BoatPAC. In her capacity at the NMMA, she was active within the Lacey Coalition. Her knowledge of many issues affecting the international trade in wood and wood products will be an advantage for the IWPA, according to the trade group.

"I am delighted to join IWPA and to lend my voice in support of the many businesses who make up the international wood products industry. I look forward to continuing to build upon IWPA’s strong programs and membership in the coming years,” Squires said in a statement.

"Cindy will utilize the tremendous skills that she has developed throughout her career in helping us build a broader and stronger membership and communicate to the market the intrinsic value, sustainability and beauty of wood products,” added IWPA president Warren Spitz.