Chris Foley, the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), is slated to conclude his tenure in November 2026, marking four years at the helm of the distinguished nonprofit entity. His departure prompts the organization's board to initiate a comprehensive search for a new leader who will be instrumental in steering APCO's 2030 Strategic Plan and navigating significant systemic changes and regulatory adjustments. This recruitment effort will span both domestic and international talent pools.
During this transitional period, Foley will maintain his leadership role, primarily focusing on advancing APCO's regulatory reform initiatives. Concurrently, Chief Operating Officer Tom Key will assume responsibility for the organization's daily operational management. Foley's leadership has been notably successful, with participant numbers in the Australian Packaging Covenant surging from 900 in 2018 to over 2500. Furthermore, the Australasian Recycling Label program expanded significantly under his guidance, now encompassing more than 500,000 products. A key achievement during his time was the development of the 2030 Strategic Plan, which includes a pioneering co-regulatory extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme, currently under governmental review.
APCO's Leadership Transition and Strategic Vision
The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is preparing for a significant leadership change as CEO Chris Foley announces his departure in November 2026. This transition marks the end of a four-year period during which Foley significantly advanced APCO's mission. The organization's board has launched an extensive search for a new CEO, aiming to find a leader who can effectively implement the 2030 Strategic Plan and guide APCO through upcoming regulatory reforms and systemic shifts in the packaging industry. This global search underscores the importance of finding a successor capable of building on Foley's achievements and driving future initiatives in both local and international markets.
During his tenure, Foley played a pivotal role in expanding APCO's reach and impact. The Australian Packaging Covenant saw a substantial increase in participation, growing from 900 to over 2500 organizations. Additionally, the Australasian Recycling Label program, a key initiative for sustainable packaging, broadened its coverage to include more than 500,000 products. Foley also spearheaded the development of APCO's 2030 Strategic Plan, which features an innovative, industry-designed co-regulatory extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme currently awaiting government approval. APCO Chair Sam Andersen emphasized that the board is managing this transition with careful planning, ensuring stable leadership until the new CEO is appointed. Foley has expressed his commitment to working closely with the board, members, and government to support regulatory reform for EPR in Australia and ensure a seamless handover, maintaining APCO's foundational support for an effective new regulatory environment.
Sustaining Momentum: Regulatory Reform and a Circular Economy Focus
As APCO navigates this leadership transition, a core focus remains on advancing regulatory reform and promoting a circular economy for packaging in Australia. Chris Foley, while stepping down, will continue to play a crucial role in overseeing regulatory initiatives during the interim period, ensuring continuity and progress. This commitment highlights the ongoing importance of collaborative efforts with government, industry stakeholders, and partners across the packaging value chain. The organization's strategic direction, particularly the 2030 Strategic Plan and the proposed EPR scheme, is designed to foster a more sustainable and responsible packaging ecosystem.
The transition period is strategically managed to ensure that APCO's critical work continues uninterrupted. Chief Operating Officer Tom Key will manage day-to-day operations, allowing Foley to dedicate his efforts to the complexities of regulatory reform. This division of responsibilities is intended to maintain efficiency and focus on key objectives. APCO's dedication to establishing a circular economy for packaging involves fostering strong partnerships and implementing effective policies that encourage recycling, reuse, and waste reduction. The organization's efforts are aimed at not only meeting current environmental challenges but also setting new standards for sustainability in the packaging sector, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and environmentally conscious industry in Australia.
