Catherine David named chief executive of WRAP to accelerate circular economy action
Catherine David has been appointed as the new chief executive of WRAP, a global leader in environmental action, starting her role on 1st June. With a background steeped in sustainability, David previously served as the director for behaviour change and business programmes at WRAP since joining the organisation in October 2021. Her career includes significant roles at The Fairtrade Foundation and Co-op, where she honed her expertise in partnership development aimed at driving positive environmental and social outcomes.
David expressed her enthusiasm for the new position, stating, “We are on a mission to embed circular living in every board room and every home. It is a huge privilege to take on the job of leading the wonderful team as chief executive.” This ambition aligns closely with WRAP's overarching goal: to instil sustainable practices within both corporate and domestic settings at a time when the urgency for environmental action is paramount.
Under her leadership, WRAP has developed vital collaborations across various sectors. This includes several voluntary agreements such as The UK Plastics Pact, designed to tackle plastic waste, and the Food and Drink Pact, which aims at reducing food waste. These initiatives represent a strategic component of WRAP’s ongoing efforts to cultivate a circular economy, a system that reduces waste by improving resource efficiency.
Sebastian Munden, chair of trustees at WRAP, emphasised David's robust capabilities to lead at this critical juncture. He stated, “Catherine has the skills, determination, and expertise to lead WRAP at this important time,” highlighting her past contributions to the organisation’s mission. Munden noted her role in creating synergies that not only address immediate sustainability challenges but also facilitate broader systemic changes within the realms of food and materials.
Catherine David’s approach is marked by her commitment to building partnerships that effect change, a principle evidenced in her oversight of initiatives aimed at encouraging citizen participation in sustainability efforts. Programmes such as Recycle Now and Love Food Hate Waste exemplify this, promoting behaviour change that encourages individuals to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Moreover, as the sustainability sector shifts towards a more collaborative ethos, David’s experience will be invaluable in expanding WRAP’s influence beyond the UK. She envisions leveraging her leadership to enhance the organisation's global impact, fostering partnerships that address shared environmental challenges.
Her appointment comes at a poignant moment, with many organisations recognising the need for sustainable practices in light of climate change and its profound repercussions. Catherine’s vision for WRAP will not only shepherd its current initiatives but also propel new strategies that address the complexity of modern environmental issues.
In the broader context of the sustainability movement, WRAP's focus under David's leadership will be critical in driving forward the circular economy narrative. As the world grapples with waste management and resource efficiency, WRAP's mission and David's leadership could signify a turning point in how businesses and communities collaborate to create sustainable futures—reaffirming that the shift towards more responsible consumption patterns begins not just in boardrooms, but in the homes of every citizen.
As Catherine David steps into her role as chief executive, the commitment to creating a more sustainable, circular economy remains strong. With her extensive experience and strategic vision, WRAP is well poised to lead the way in fostering sustainable practices that are crucial for both people and the planet.