MARTIN Kersh, the executive director of the Foodservice Packaging Association (FPA), is set to take on the role of joint CEO of the Packaging Federation alongside long-standing CEO Dick Searle.
Effective from the start of October this year, the move has been described as marking a ‘pivotal moment’ for both organisations as they enter the next phases of their development. It also coincides with Martin Kersh’s decision to pursue a long-held ambition to enter local politics.
FPA chair Mike Revell praised Martin’s impact on the association over more than two decades, stating, “When I was first serving as the FPA’s executive chair in 2003, I introduced Martin to the association, and his role has since developed beyond expectations. His contribution to the FPA over the last 22 years has been fundamental in securing the position the association finds itself in today. He has become a highly respected figure within foodservice packaging and is recognised as the voice of the FPA across the industry.
“Martin’s networking skills, drive and commitment have helped the FPA surmount numerous challenges during his tenure, and on behalf of the membership, I sincerely thank him for this – and for being the FPA’s expert guide on the ongoing issues faced by our sector. We wish him every success in his new role at the Packaging Federation and look forward to a continuing close collaboration between our two trade organisations.”
Packaging Federation chair Ron Marsh added, “We are delighted Martin is joining us as joint CEO alongside Dick Searle. His appointment will help the Packaging Federation to grow, building on the strong foundations laid by Dick Searle. Their skillsets are highly complementary, creating a perfect fit.”
Martin’s final FPA engagement will be at the FPA Environment Seminar on 29 October, following which FPA members will have the chance to catch up with him at a farewell drinks reception.
Martin Kersh said, “The FPA and the Packaging Federation have long enjoyed excellent relations, and that will continue. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the FPA’s chair Mike Revell and the FPA board for the positive way they received the news of my intention to move on – their support has been hugely encouraging.
“Both the FPA and the Packaging Federation are outstanding organisations with wonderful members. It has been an honour to serve the former for so many years, and I’m privileged to have been asked to do the same for the latter. I leave the FPA in an excellent position with an outstanding team and am looking forward to joining the Packaging Federation to work alongside Dick, who has so expertly built it into the force it is today.”
Dick Searle commented, “After 19 years leading the Packaging Federation I suggested sharing with Martin the challenge of taking the federation to the next stage of its development.”
