In a strategic move to propel the glass industry towards a more sustainable and innovative future, Glass Futures, a leading research and development organization, has announced the appointment of Justin Kelly as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This transition marks a significant milestone in the organization's evolution, as it prepares to embark on a new chapter of groundbreaking advancements.

Unlocking the Potential of Glass for a Greener Tomorrow

Charting a Course for Sustainable Growth

Kelly, a chartered engineer with an impressive track record, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His career at Siemens, where he held various leadership positions over nearly three decades, culminating in his appointment to the Siemens executive management board in 2017, has equipped him with the strategic vision and operational expertise to guide Glass Futures through its next phase of growth. Kelly's proven ability to drive transformation and champion sustainability will be invaluable as the organization continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the glass industry.

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration

As the founding CEO of the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Center, Kelly has demonstrated a deep commitment to driving innovation and fostering collaborative partnerships. In 2023, he further solidified his dedication to sustainability by becoming the non-executive chairperson of Sustainable Ventures North, an organization that supports sustainability-focused start-ups nationwide. This multifaceted experience positions Kelly as the ideal leader to steer Glass Futures towards a future where glass plays a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable and innovative world.

Unlocking the Power of Glass for a Greener Future

"We welcome Justin to Glass Futures as we move into the next phase of the organization's evolution as an operational research facility," says Mike Houghton, chief commercial officer of Process Industries Software at Siemens. "His wealth of experience in leadership, strategy, transformation, sustainability, marketing, governance and a passion for responsible business will be indispensable to the continued growth of Glass Futures towards a sustainable and innovative future."

Transitioning Leadership for Continued Success

The appointment of Justin Kelly as the new CEO of Glass Futures marks a significant transition in the organization's leadership. Richard Katz, the founding CEO who has been instrumental in shaping the organization's vision and direction since its inception in 2020, has been appointed as the new President. In this role, Katz will continue to work closely with the United Kingdom government, leveraging his deep understanding of Glass Futures' research, development, and innovation capabilities to help policymakers navigate the path towards a more sustainable glass industry.

Expanding the Board of Directors for Diverse Expertise

Alongside the leadership transition, Glass Futures has also announced the appointment of new members to its board of directors. These include Mike Houghton, who will serve as the chairperson, and José Miguel Ivorra, the vice president of Global Business Development at Guardian Industries. The addition of these industry leaders further strengthens the organization's governance and ensures a diverse range of expertise to guide its strategic direction.

Pioneering the Future of Glass: A Collaborative Effort

Glass Futures was initially conceived over a decade ago by Richard Katz and Dave Dalton, the CEO of the British Glass Manufacturers' Confederation, the representative body for the U.K. glass industry. The organization was established as an independent, not-for-profit entity to provide the glass industry with access to an industrial-scale experimental pilot plant, enabling groundbreaking research, development, and innovation.

Driving Sustainable Transformation in the Glass Industry

As Glass Futures embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of Justin Kelly, the organization is poised to accelerate the glass industry's transition towards a more sustainable and innovative future. With Kelly's proven track record, the organization's commitment to collaboration, and the expanded board of directors, Glass Futures is well-equipped to unlock the full potential of glass as a material that can contribute to a greener, more sustainable world.