Simon holds a Master's degree in Forest Sciences from the University of Freiburg and has more than ten years of professional experience, particularly in the areas of forest certification schemes and international cooperation. He has gained valuable experience in numerous countries, where he has been involved in projects for the sustainable management of forests. Among other things, he worked for more than two years in Ethiopia in the field of forest planning, forest protection and forest inventory and supported the implementation of a training center for sustainable forest management in Vietnam. In addition to advising on the implementation of forest projects abroad, he has extensive experience in the field of forest certification and has successfully carried out more than 400 COC (Chain of Custody) audits. His expertise includes supporting companies and organizations in the implementation and review of certification standards for sustainable forestry. In 2025, he was appointed a member of the Board of Directors of WaKa - Forest Investment Services AG.