DS Smith has appointed John Melia to the role of managing director for its UK recycling division. Melia supersedes Mat Prosser, who takes up a new post as head of strategic business development and transformation (Europe).
Melia brings more than 25 years’ experience in the manufacturing and process industries, where he was responsible for leading complex multi-site organisations. Holding director-level positions in commercial, operations and business development functions, Melia also boasts expertise with companies spanning the chemicals and food sectors.
Commenting on his appointment, Melia said: “It was DS Smith’s commitment to shaping the future of the circular economy that really caught my attention. I am new to the recycling sector, but I firmly believe that the transfer of management skills can boost fresh thinking and innovation in any business environment. As such, my focus will be on applying my capabilities and knowledge to further drive DS Smith’s success.”
As managing director, Melia will lead DS Smith’s UK operations, set against a backdrop of the growing public recognition that effective recycling will be crucial to in cementing the UK as a leader in pioneering a truly sustainable economy. A key element of this will be managing the UK collection, processing and supply of paper for recycling (PfR) within the context of DS Smith’s own closed loop recycled packaging model, as well as the supply of quality materials for recycling to its recycling partners across the globe.
Melia will also work to ensure that DS Smith’s strategic goals of delighting its customers, realising the potential of its people and leading the way in sustainability are at the heart of its UK recycling and waste management strategy.
Commenting on these goals, Melia added: “DS Smith’s clearly articulated values strike a real chord with me, strongly aligning with my belief that customers and employees are the true assets of any successful business.
“I look forward to building on DS Smith’s excellent reputation as a leading supplier of sustainable packaging solutions by promoting and embedding excellence across our recycling operations. This will give us the strong foundation for ongoing growth and development as we consider new and innovative ways to deliver recycling and waste management services in our rapidly-changing society.”
