The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has appointed Sarah Cook as its next chief executive officer, effective 9 November.
The organisation prepares for a leadership transition. Cook will succeed Chris Foley, who is set to leave the organisation at the end of November, according to APCO.
Her appointment follows a global executive search and brings experience across the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), packaging, recycling technology and circular economy sectors.
Cook brings experience from Coca-Cola and Samsara Eco
Cook joins APCO with a background in senior leadership roles at Samsara Eco and Coca-Cola, alongside previous experience at Nestlé.
As chief commercial officer at Samsara Eco, she helped scale AI-enabled recycling technology and contributed to global policy development.
At Coca-Cola, she led major packaging investments and played a key role in establishing the Circular Plastics Australia joint venture.
She has also led teams across multiple countries, with experience in business transformation, commercial strategy and procurement.
APCO highlights leadership and industry experience
APCO chair Sam Andersen said Cook's experience across commercial operations, procurement and business transformation would support the organisation's work with businesses and government to advance Australia's packaging system.
“Sarah's experience, strategic capability and commitment to partnership across industry, government and the community make her the right leader for APCO as we continue to collaborate with members and stakeholders across the value chain,” Andersen said.
Cook said she was looking forward to working with industry stakeholders to accelerate the country's transition towards a circular packaging economy.
“I’m excited to join APCO and work with its members, government and broader industry partners to accelerate Australia’s transition to a more circular packaging future,” Cook said.
“APCO has a critical role in shaping the future for packaging, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place.”
She also highlighted opportunities to strengthen collaboration and innovation across the packaging value chain, with a focus on practical solutions and environmental outcomes.
Foley to depart after leading APCO since 2022
Cook's appointment marks a leadership transition at APCO, with Foley concluding his tenure at the end of November. He has led the organisation since 2022.
Andersen acknowledged Foley's contribution to APCO and the wider packaging sector over the past four years.
APCO administers the Australian Packaging Covenant, bringing together businesses across the packaging supply chain and Commonwealth, state and territory governments to reduce the environmental impact of packaging.