The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), a prominent global environmental NGO, has made a significant leadership transition by appointing Catherine David as its new CEO.
Catherine David, who currently serves as WRAP’s Director for Behaviour Change and Business Programmes, will officially step into her new role on 1st June. With her extensive background, she brings a wealth of experience that positions her as an ideal leader for the organization.
Since her arrival at WRAP in October 2021, Catherine David has held several senior roles at esteemed organizations, including The Fairtrade Foundation and the retailer Co-op. Known as a senior leader in the sustainability sector, WRAP has recognized her as an expert in sustainability practices and ethical trade. Specifically, her work has focused on developing sustainable value chains and enhancing both food and materials systems.
In her current capacity, David oversees WRAP’s business collaboration initiatives, which encompass multiple voluntary agreements. These include pivotal projects such as The UK Plastics Pact, The Food and Drink Pact, and The Textiles Pact. Additionally, she leads the organization’s impactful citizen behavior change programs, namely Recycle Now and Love Food Hate Waste. Her leadership in these areas underscores her commitment to creating sustainable practices within communities.
Catherine David expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating: “I am absolutely delighted to be taking on the role of CEO of WRAP. At WRAP, we are on a mission to embed circular living in every board room and every home, and it is a huge privilege to take on the job of leading the wonderful team as CEO. I look forward to working with WRAP’s partners and stakeholders across the world to take action, at a crucial time for our planet and for all of us who call it home.”
Stepping into the role previously held by Harriet Lamb, Catherine David aims to advance WRAP’s 2030 Strategy, which is structured around four essential programs:
- Future Proof Food
- Prevent Problem Plastics
- Transform Textiles
- Accelerate the Circular Economy
Moreover, WRAP has indicated that David will play a crucial role in expanding the organization’s global reach. This initiative follows the recent establishment of WRAP’s first office in the European Union, along with additional offices in the USA and Australia that serve initiatives across both the Americas and Asia-Pacific regions.
Sebastian Munden, the Chair of WRAP trustees, commended David’s leadership capabilities by stating: “Catherine has the skills, determination, and expertise to lead WRAP at this important time, boosted by her experience of the last three and a half years of change. She will continue to drive our mission, which she helped co-create, to embed Circular Living in every boardroom and every home.”
Furthermore, Munden emphasized David’s unwavering commitment to advancing an ambitious strategy that focuses on systemic change in the food and drink sector, as well as in materials such as textiles and packaging. His remarks highlighted her vital role in expanding WRAP’s global reach and its overall impact on sustainability initiatives.
