PAPERMAKER James Cropper has confirmed the appointment of Rob Tilsley as fibre operations group lead.
He will be tasked with driving growth of upcycled fibre within the company’s paper products to 50% by 2025, both increasing the capacity and quality of recovered fibre available to the business.
In addition, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of the on-site upcycled fibre facility, baler house and waste-water plant; as well as the introduction of new fibre streams and the standardisation of recovered fibre use.
The move follows the creation of James Cropper’s destination brand for its expertise in fibre. FibreBlend Upcycled Technology is described as being at the heart of the business purpose of producing pioneering materials to safeguard the future. The FibreBlend model is said to organise the fibre blend options available to customers into a ‘clear’ offer.
Rob takes on the role after 18 years’ service at the James Cropper mill in the Lake District, bringing with him knowledge of the company’s paper making processes and products.
Richard Burnett, head of technology and innovation at James Cropper, said, “Rob’s extensive knowledge of the industry and our business coupled with his commercial mindset and passion for innovation make him the perfect fit to drive our ambitions for FibreBlend Upcycled Technology.
“At a time when consumer demand for paper and packaging which tirelessly pushes the boundaries of sustainable solutions continues to grow at pace, it is an exciting time to take on this role.”
Rob Tilsley added, “Having honed my knowledge of papermaking within the James Cropper family, I am over the moon to be involved in continuing this mission and reaching our goal to have a balance of fresh and recovered fibre across our portfolio of paper products by 2025.”
