The announcement comes as the organisation transitions from its initial mobilisation phase into its first stage of operation.
UK Packaging PRO is the UK’s packaging Extended Producer Responsibility Organisation, bringing together more than 100 of the country’s largest brands, retailers and trade bodies.
The organisation has secured backing from industry groups including the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) and the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN).
The appointments follow the earlier announcement of Sebastian Munden CBE as Chair of the organisation’s board.
Munden said: “Kerry brings exceptional international experience of leading complex supply chains, transforming organisations and embedding sustainability across major consumer businesses.
“Karen brings deep expertise in packaging policy and producer responsibility, alongside the operational knowledge and relationships developed through UK Packaging PRO’s establishment and mobilisation.
“Their complementary experience will give the organisation the strategic leadership, continuity and operational focus it needs for its next stage of development.”
Jeremy Blake, CEO of PackUK, added: “These appointments are an important step for UK Packaging PRO as it moves from mobilisation into delivery.
“Kerry brings significant operational and transformation experience, while Karen provides continuity and deep knowledge of packaging EPR and the practical systems needed to make it work.
“Together, they give UK Packaging PRO the leadership, operational discipline and stakeholder focus needed to help build an effective, efficient and evidence-led packaging EPR system across the UK.”
Kerry Easter joins from Diageo
Easter joins UK Packaging PRO with experience spanning quality, innovation, manufacturing and strategic supply networks across sectors including food, beverages, home and personal care, beauty and retail.
Most recently, she served as Global Head of Category Supply Chain for Gin, Rum and Vodka at Diageo.
She has also held senior roles at Unilever and The Estée Lauder Companies, and was a co-founder of Rituals.
Commenting on her appointment, Easter said: “I’m delighted to be joining Sebastian, Karen and the team in this exciting growth phase of UK Packaging PRO and wider packaging circularity across the UK.
“My immediate priority will be to engage with the organisation’s partners and stakeholders, taking input to build on the foundations already established.
“We will ensure that UK Packaging PRO develops the appropriate strategies, capability and discipline required for a successful next phase.”
Karen Graley takes COO role
Graley, who has played a leading role in establishing UK Packaging PRO, will oversee the continued development of the organisation’s operational capability, governance and delivery arrangements as COO.
Her experience spans retail, FMCG, packaging, producer responsibility and environmental compliance, with the organisation saying she has a strong track record of bringing together industry insight, policy understanding and practical delivery.
Graley said: “I am looking forward to building UK Packaging PRO into an organisation that is trusted by producers, respected by its partners and recognised for delivering practical results.
“I am proud of the foundations we have established and excited to continue that work as COO.
“I look forward to working alongside Kerry, our Board, our growing team, PackUK and partners across the value chain to build the capability, relationships and momentum needed to make packaging EPR work effectively and deliver meaningful, measurable improvements.”
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