Richard Kirkman, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer of Veolia UK and Ireland, has been appointed as CEO of Veolia Australia and New Zealand.

Taking up the new position, based in Sydney, on 1 September, Kirkman will have particular responsibility for the development of new infrastructure within the Australia and New Zealand Zone.

Previously working in manufacturing, Kirkman joined the Veolia Group in 1994 as an environmental engineer, and has since helped secure the company’s position within the industry, while delivering resource management infrastructure that has been central to the company’s expansion within the circular economy.

During this period, he has led landmark projects including the Southwark recycling facility, Dagenham plastics, SELCHP district heating and the Leeds Energy Recovery Facility.

Kirkman has provided an industry voice on policy issues and has made significant contributions to a number of leading organisations, including Business in the Community, Council for Sustainable Business, Environmental Services Association, RECOUP and OPRL.

Gavin Graveson, Executive Vice-President of Veolia UK & Ireland said: "Richard has made an outstanding contribution to our business across a wide remit and become a well-known and well-respected commentator on resource management issues. His passion for resourcing the world and protecting the environment will continue as CEO of the Australia and New Zealand zone, and I'm sure his industry colleagues will wish him well in his exciting new role."

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