The board of directors of Ireland’s deposit return scheme, operated by not-for-profit organisation Re-turn, has appointed Ciaran Foley as its chief executive officer.
Foley, formerly the managing director of DHL Ireland, will lead the implementation and integration of the scheme in Ireland.
In his new role, he will be responsible for the strategic organisational development of the scheme and oversee the legal obligations of members, business expansion, cost control, and effective government and industry stakeholder communication, Re-turn noted.
Commenting on his appointment as CEO of Re-turn, Foley said, “I am honoured to be at the helm of such a crucial circular-economy initiative.
“By introducing a deposit return scheme, Ireland is joining a global success story, which is thriving in over 40 regions worldwide, including 13 countries in Europe.
“A deposit return scheme is a circular-economy game-changer for Ireland, shifting from take-make-dispose to returning valuable materials and maximising their use, creating a circular system for high-value plastics and cans.
“Its introduction of a deposit return scheme is hugely beneficial to our environmental goals and is a critical element of the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy to achieve EU targets.
“The scheme is a practical environmental initiative that will increase recycling rates, reduce litter, lower emissions, prevent waste, and relieve pressure on our natural resources.”
Vast Experience
As managing director of DHL Supply Chain Ireland, Foley led an organisation of almost 1,000 employees, providing logistical solutions for customers across multiple sectors.
He established the DHL Supply Chain business as the leader in sustainability for logistics solutions in Ireland and secured an €80 million investment for the long-term supply of biomethane, to 100% decarbonise DHL’s transport business.
As supply chain director of Tesco Ireland, Foley oversaw best-in-class operations across all elements of supply chain and distribution within the company while taking on responsibilities for essential KPIs in retail, including waste and shrinkage.
‘Commitment To Sustainability’
As CEO, Foley will lead a core team of 30 and work closely with the committed board of directors in place, including Tony Keohane as chair.
Keohane added, “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Ciaran Foley as the CEO of Re-turn.
“His knowledge and experience in supply chain management and his commitment to sustainability are key to ensuring this significant circular-economy initiative is successfully launched on 1 February 2024.”
Read More: Minister Smyth Tells Checkout Why Ireland Needs A Deposit Return Scheme
