The UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO) has appointed Russell Davies as its Chief Executive Officer.
The UK DMO is the not-for-profit organisation responsible for designing, delivering and operating the new Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) across England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Davies will formally take up the role as UK DMO CEO on 5 January 2026. Commenting on his appointment, Davies said it was an honour to join UK DMO.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a scheme that works for business, for consumers and for the environment – a system that changes how the UK manages packaging and recycling,” Davies said.
“My focus now is on delivery – making sure the DMO has the capability, partnerships and momentum to make this scheme a success.”
The DRS will cover drinks containers made from PET plastic, steel and aluminium between 150 ml and 3 litres.
Davies previously served as CEO for North Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Hillebrand Gori, a DHL company specialising in beverage logistics, where he led teams across multiple international markets.
Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at GKN Automotive, DHL Freight UK and Savoye.
As CEO, Davies will lead the DMO in ensuring all parts of the DRS are prepared for launch in October 2027.
The UK DMO says over the coming months it will finalise its operational blueprint by consulting on the design of the Retail Handling Fee and Producer Fee structures and identifying the logistics, collection and recycling partners for the scheme.
John Bason, Chair of the UK DMO Board, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Russell to the DMO. His appointment marks another important step forward as we strengthen our leadership team and accelerate preparations for delivery.”
“Russell brings extensive experience in managing complex operational networks and working across business and government to achieve large-scale change. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the DMO is ready to deliver a scheme that is practical, efficient and trusted by the public.”