New leadership at WRAP and Faerch: CEOs announced to drive sustainability and growth

UK – Environmental NGO WRAP has appointed Catherine David as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 June.

Currently serving as WRAP’s Director of Behaviour Change & Business Programmes, David brings a wealth of experience in sustainability and ethical trade, having previously held senior positions at The Fairtrade Foundation and Co-op.

Since joining WRAP in 2021, David has led major business collaboration initiatives, including The UK Plastics Pact, The Food and Drink Pact, and The Textiles Pact, as well as WRAP’s flagship citizen engagement campaigns, Recycle Now* and Love Food Hate Waste.

A respected figure in the sustainability sector, David is known for her work in developing sustainable value chains and transforming food and materials systems.

Speaking on her appointment, she said, “I am absolutely delighted to be taking on the role of CEO of WRAP. We are on a mission to embed circular living in every boardroom and every home, and it is a huge privilege to lead this incredible team.

“I look forward to working with our partners and stakeholders around the world to take meaningful action at a crucial time for our planet.”

Sebastian Munden, Chair of WRAP’s Board of Trustees, praised the appointment, stating, “Catherine has the skills, determination, and expertise to lead WRAP at this pivotal time. Her leadership over the past three and a half years has already been central to shaping our strategy.

“She will continue driving our mission to deliver systemic change in food, packaging, textiles, and the broader circular economy—while expanding WRAP’s global impact.”

David succeeds Harriet Lamb and will be responsible for implementing WRAP’s ambitious 2030 Strategy, which focuses on four key programmes: Future Proof Food, Prevent Problem Plastics, Transform Textiles, and Accelerate the Circular Economy.

Her appointment comes as WRAP continues to expand globally, with recent offices established in the EU, USA, and Australia, supporting work across Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific.

Faerch appoints Pernille Lind Olsen as new CEO

In related leadership news, Faerch, the Danish specialist in rigid plastic food packaging, has appointed Pernille Lind Olsen as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Olsen joins Faerch from Henkel, where she served as President of Henkel North America and Corporate Senior Vice President for Henkel Adhesive Technologies’ global packaging and consumer goods business.

“I am very excited to join Faerch and lead such an innovative and forward-thinking team,” Olsen said.

“Sustainability is not only the right thing to do but also the path to profitable growth. I look forward to advancing our journey towards circularity and pioneering new solutions that benefit both our business and the environment.”

Henrik Poulsen, Chairman of Faerch, welcomed the appointment, noting, “Pernille brings extensive experience, strong leadership, and a deep customer focus. We are confident she will guide Faerch toward continued industry leadership and long-term profitable growth alongside the management team.”

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