INCPEN names new CEO

INCPEN is a group of manufacturers and retailers from across the supply chain who carry out research to understand the environmental and social effects of packaging, and work together to promote responsible packaging for sustainable supply chains.

Vanston has 26 years of public sector experience in central and local government, the last 15 of which have been in the resource efficiency sector including the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (now Defra), the Local Government Association and most recently with Kent County Council and the Kent Resource Partnership. His roles have covered leadership, policy and strategy development, and communications.

During this time, Vanston has worked closely with INCPEN, other industry bodies and leading retailers, and been involved in a number of high-profile campaigns such as Fresher for Longer, Pledge4Plastics and Metal Matters.

He succeeds Jane Bickerstaffe, whose retirement was announced last year.

INCPEN chairman David Baker commented: ‘We interviewed a number of very high calibre candidates and Paul’s personal strengths, governmental expertise, and experience of the supply chain were key factors in his appointment. We are confident he will consolidate and build on Jane’s fantastic work over many years to ensure INCPEN is at the heart of shaping a post-Brexit UK that supports the supply chain’s needs.’

Bickerstaffe will formally retire on May 19, and in the meantime Vanston will serve as CEO-designate to ensure a smooth handover and plan future activities with the INCPEN membership.

‘Paul is very well-known across the whole industry for his passion and genuine commitment to resource and product efficiency,’ said Bickerstaffe. ‘His supply chain work with retailers, brands, recyclers and others puts him in good stead to lead INCPEN into the future.  I am pleased to hand over to him.’