CDS operations director Ian Wilton has been appointed president of the BPIF. Wilton, who was previously the federation’s vice president, replaces outgoing president Darren Coxon, following his four-year tenure.
BPIF CEO Charles Jarrold said: “The sector as a whole owes a debt of gratitude to the support Darren has given. I’m looking forward the next stage of development under Ian’s presidency, where we’ll benefit both from his huge industry experience, and knowledge of the BPIF and the role it can play.”
During his first president’s address, Wilton said: “I believe the role of the BPIF is very important to the industry. It has been able to provide such great support to the businesses that I’ve worked with over the years, and I now have the opportunity to give something back, and to ensure it continues to develop its support and services for the industries future. I, alongside the non-executive directors will continue to challenge the executive team to ensure the members are at the foremost of all the decisions we make. I will be there for Charles, to support him during my time as president to ensure the strategic direction of the BPIF continues to enhance and add value to its members.”
Looking ahead, Jarrold said the BPIF will be increasing its focus on sector interest groups. Alongside the existing interest groups - labels, cartons, books and CDI, the BPIF will also focus on environmental, technical, data and cybersecurity, amongst others. The federation will also be publish its updated ‘Facts and Figures’ in 2021.
Jarrold added that inevitably Brexit will continue to be at the heart of much of the BPIF’s advice and activities, and that it will continue to develop its key health, safety and environmental services in a post-Covid business world.
“After a pretty tough year, we expect 2021 to be a year of adaption and growth - adaption to a post Covid-19, post-Brexit world - and growth to make the most of the strength of our sector and the entrepreneurial energy with the companies that comprise it,” said Jarrold.