Andrew Large has been appointed as the new Director General of the Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI).

Large will take up the role in September, replacing David Workman, who announced in May he was stepping down after six years.

The Swindon-based CPI represents the UK’s paper based industries, including paper merchants, paper and board manufacturers and converters, corrugated packaging producers, and makers of soft tissue papers. Together the industry has an annual turnover of £6.5 billion.

Large has experience of running trade associations, operating a consultancy on trade association strategy, management and governance and until April this year held the role of Chief Executive at the British Poultry Council. He also served as Chairman of the Trade Association Forum between 2008 and 2011, with other experience including working for the European Commission in Brussels and in the steel industry.

Commenting on his appointment, Large said: “I am delighted to be joining CPI. I have known David for many years and greatly respect his achievements in the role. Post the UK referendum decision, these are especially challenging times for the UK’s paper-based industries and I am looking forward to working with the excellent CPI team to represent this vital industry in the UK, EU and further afield.”

‘The time is now right for a change in leadership’

Outgoing Director General, David Workman commented: “My time at CPI has been very rewarding and hugely enjoyable, largely due to the tremendous support that I have received from the team and from the members. However, the time is now right for a change in leadership, given the Brexit vote and the changes in government that have ensued. I believe that in appointing Andrew, CPI has made a wise choice and I wish him well in dealing with the challenges that will inevitably come his way in the future.”

Patrick Willink, President of CPI, added: “Under David Workman’s leadership, the CPI has established itself as a credible heavyweight Trade Association, with a great depth of knowledge and the ability to influence at a national and European level. This influence has, over the years, derived a great deal of value for our industry.

“The immediate future presents us with a whole new set of issues as we try to unravel the real impact of Brexit. Andrew Large’s previous experiences and areas of expertise will allow him to influence policy makers in both the UK and Europe to secure the best he can for our businesses.”

More information about the Confederation of Paper Industries can be found at the association’s website.