The UK Deposit Management Organisation has appointed the former Finance Director of Associated British Foods, John Bason, as Chair.
The UK Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) is the not-for-profit organisation designing, delivering and operating the new Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in Northern Ireland, Scotland and England.
Bason was Finance Director of Associated British Foods for more than 20 years and has held senior roles at United Biscuits, the global distribution company Bunzl, as well as being Senior Independent Director for the global food service business Compass Group.
As Chair of FareShare, Bason oversaw its expansion into a leading UK charity tackling food waste by redirecting surplus food from retailers and producers to frontline charities.
Speaking on his appointment, Bason called the incoming DRS an opportunity to deliver a transformational change in the UK’s circular economy for these drinks containers.
Having worked in markets across the world, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that such schemes can have.
“Having worked in markets across the world, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that such schemes can have,” Bason said.
“However, it is also a complex and challenging undertaking that will only be effective if it is easy for consumers to use, fair for retailers and producers of every size, and trusted by the public.”
Since being appointed by the governments of England, Northern Ireland and Scotland, the DMO says it has been engaging with business, trade associations, consumer groups, and environmental groups as it develops the operational blueprint for the scheme.
The DMO has appointed a number of interim leaders to guide the organisation’s setup, operations, and engagement planning. Recruitment for the other Board and Senior-level positions is underway.
Commenting on the appointment, Circular Economy Minister, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Mary Creagh, said: “The appointment of John Bason as Chair is a key milestone.
“I look forward to working closely with John and the team to deliver the deposit return scheme, which will stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets and rivers, while kickstarting economic growth and creating new green jobs.”