Industry leadership updates: AF&PA names Steve Henry Chair, Can Makers UK, Reiser UK announce new appointments

USA – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has elected Steve Henry, CEO & President USA of Domtar’s Paper & Packaging division, as Chair of its Board of Directors.

The appointment was confirmed during the association’s Winter Board Meeting on January 29.

Henry succeeds to the role at a time when the US paper and packaging sector is navigating regulatory shifts, fibre supply dynamics and rising demand for sustainable materials.

AF&PA represents companies operating mills and converting facilities across nearly every US state, advocating for policies that support economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness.

Joining Henry on the executive slate are Arsen Kitch, President & CEO of Clearwater Paper Corporation, as First Vice Chair, and Andrew Silvernail, Chairman & CEO of International Paper, as Second Vice Chair.

The Board also welcomed Robbert Rietbroek, President & CEO of Graphic Packaging International, as a new member.

Can Makers UK appoints new chairman

Across the Atlantic, The Can Makers UK has appointed John O’Maoileoin, Group Global Sustainability Director at CANPACK, as its new Chairman.

He succeeds Tim Conybeare, Commercial Director UK & Ireland at Crown Bevcan EMEA, under the association’s rotating leadership structure.

O’Maoileoin brings more than 15 years’ experience spanning CANPACK, Aldi, Dairy Crest and Tesco, with a focus on sustainability, brand communications and responsible business strategy.

“We have seen real progress across the can industry in recent years, from stronger recycling performance to new formats and designs that reflect changing consumer expectations,” he said.

“The beverage can industry is ideally positioned to support the shared ambition for a more circular economy.”

Can Makers UK has recently stepped up campaigns highlighting the beverage can’s recycling credentials and category expansion into wine, cocktails and functional drinks, as brands seek premium, recyclable formats amid evolving Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks in the UK.

Reiser UK appoints new managing director

Meanwhile, Reiser UK has appointed James Couldwell as Managing Director. Previously Managing Director of ULMA Packaging UK, Couldwell led strategic growth initiatives and strengthened market presence in packaging machinery.

At Reiser UK, a supplier of processing and packaging solutions to meat, poultry, seafood, alternative protein, bakery and dairy sectors, Couldwell will oversee business growth, customer engagement and operational performance.

“Reiser UK’s commitment to delivering smarter, more efficient and reliable solutions aligns perfectly with my focus on innovation and practical application,” he said.

The appointments reflect a broader industry emphasis on sustainability leadership, equipment innovation and policy engagement as packaging markets adapt to shifting consumer and regulatory landscapes.

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