The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has appointed Sarah Cook as its next CEO, bringing experience in packaging investment, recycling technology and business transformation to the role. She steps into the role on 9 November, succeeding Chris Foley who departs at the end of the month.
The APCO Board says Cook’s appointment follows an extensive global search and brings a leader with experience across major fast-moving consumer goods businesses and circular economy ventures to the organisation.
Her background includes executive roles at Samsara Eco and Coca-Cola, as well as experience at Nestlé. As chief commercial officer at Samsara Eco, she helped scale AI-enabled recycling technology and contributed to global policy development.
At Coca-Cola, Cook led major packaging investments and was instrumental in establishing the Circular Plastics Australia joint venture. Her experience also includes leading teams across multiple countries through business transformation.
APCO chair Sam Andersen said Cook’s commercial, procurement and business transformation experience would support the organisation as its role in the broader packaging system is strengthened.
“Sarah's experience, strategic capability and commitment to partnership across industry, government and the community make her the right leader for APCO as we continue to collaborate with members and stakeholders across the value chain,” Andersen said.
Cook said she was honoured to take on the role at a pivotal moment for Australia’s packaging system.
“I’m excited to join APCO and work with its members, government and broader industry partners to accelerate Australia’s transition to a more circular packaging future,” Cook said.
“APCO has a critical role in shaping the future for packaging, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place.”
She said there was further opportunity for innovation and collaboration across the packaging value chain, with a focus on supporting industry, driving practical solutions and delivering environmental outcomes.
Andersen also thanked Chris Foley, who has led APCO since 2022, for his contribution to the organisation and the packaging sector over the past four years.
APCO administers the Australian Packaging Covenant, bringing together businesses across the packaging supply chain and Commonwealth, state and territory governments to minimise the environmental impact of packaging.
