The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has announced that chief executive officer Chris Foley will step down at the end of November, following four years in the role during a pivotal period for packaging policy and regulatory reform.
The APCO Board will begin a local and international search for a new chief executive to lead the organisation through the next phase of regulatory reform and delivery of its 2030 Strategic Plan, including the transition to an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme.
During the transition, Foley will continue leading APCO's work on regulatory reform, while recently appointed chief operating officer Tom Key will oversee the organisation's operational delivery.
According to APCO, Foley's tenure saw signatory participation in the Australian Packaging Covenant grow from around 900 organisations in 2018 to more than 2500. The Australasian Recycling Label program expanded to more than 500,000 products, and APCO developed its 2030 Strategic Plan, including an industry-designed model for a co-regulatory EPR scheme that is now before governments.
Sam Andersen, chair of APCO, said the organisation had strengthened both its governance and delivery capability.
“We are grateful for the work Chris has undertaken and thank him for his significant achievements to date towards effective packaging outcomes. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the coming months during this transition period,” Andersen said.
“APCO's strategy, its programs and its positions before governments and the Parliament are unchanged. The Board is managing this transition deliberately, with settled leadership arrangements through to the appointment of our next CEO.”
Foley said he would remain focused on supporting APCO's members and government as Australia progresses towards an EPR framework for packaging.
“I am working closely with the Board to ensure a smooth transition, and to ensure APCO continues to provide the fundamentals needed to support an effective new regulatory environment,” Foley said.
Ed's note: Chris Foley has always been generous with his time in supporting PKN's coverage of packaging policy and industry reform. Whether responding to difficult questions, making himself available for interviews, or providing informed commentary on complex issues, he has consistently engaged openly and professionally with the media. On a personal note, I will miss working with Chris and thank him for his accessibility, candour and contribution to informed industry discussion. The PKN team wishes him every success in the next chapter of his career.
