JAMES CROPPER appoints chief operations officer to accelerate strategic growth


James Cropper, the global market leader in advanced materials and paper products, has announced the appointment of Richard Broadhead as Chief Operations Officer for Paper & Packaging.
Reporting into CEO, Steve Adams, Richard will have leadership responsibility for all elements of production and supply chain along with process improvement and customer experience.
The appointment follows James Cropper’s major transformation programme including operational modernisation and rebranding. The changes have already resulted in greater productivity in paper making with James Cropper on-target to achieve targeted annual cost savings of over £2m, alongside investment in a new CRM to better serve customers.
Steve Adams, CEO of James Cropper, said, “Richard was the natural choice to support the next phase of James Cropper’s bold growth strategy. He brings with him a wealth of commercial experience and a track record of exceptional leadership and spearheading change programmes.”
“As we position James Cropper for future success, Richard will play an essential role in client services, business expansion, and strengthening our culture, as well as pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the paper and packaging industry.”
Having held a number of senior positions in FMCG, Retail and Hospitality, Richard’s career has centred on manufacturing and operations. Previously Supply Chain & Operations Director at James Cropper, Richard has an in-depth understanding of the business as well as experience in driving financial savings, enhancing operational effectiveness and team engagement.
Speaking on his appointment, Richard said, “My career began on the factory floor and it’s incredible to now be a part of James Cropper’s evolution from Victorian mill to global market leader.
“The team at James Cropper is driven by a constant need to innovate and together we’re committed to delivering groundbreaking solutions for our customers. I’ll be harnessing this ambition and exploring opportunities to invest in and develop our offering and people.”