James Cropper hires new managing director

Paper, packaging, and advanced materials manufacturer, James Cropper, has announced that Paul Barber has joined as the company’s new managing director of paper and packaging.

Barber’s appointment, which coincides with James Cropper’s 180th year of operation, follows a recent transformation programme by the company.

As well as the unification of James Cropper’s speciality paper, colourform, and technical fibre products under the core James Cropper brand name, the papermaker has streamlined its portfolio and made several strategic key hires, including the recent appointment of David Stirling as its new chief executive officer in October 2024.

Barber comes to the role with more than 25 years of experience in the paper and packaging industry, most recently as managing director of the Coveris Group. Barber began his career as area sales manager for Sonoco, with other roles at Weidenhammer Packaging Group, Smurfit Kappa, DS Smith, and Corrboard.

In a statement on the appointment, James Cropper highlights Barber’s skills in building customer partnerships, operational stabilisation, investment planning, new product development, and manufacturing growth.

Commenting on his appointment, Barber says: “During my tenure in the paper and packaging industry, I have long admired James Cropper for its history of quality manufacturing, innovation, navigating challenges, and deep-rooted ESG values.

“This role presents a unique opportunity to be part of a first-rate team.”  

Speaking about his focuses in the new role, Barber continues: “My focus will be on creating an environment where our employees can thrive and mobilise their knowledge and expertise to accelerate bespoke solutions for our customers.

"I’ll also be aligning our strong operational ability and introducing new systems and processes to support our customer base.”

David Stirling, chief executive officer of James Cropper, adds: “With a background of spearheading transformation and increasing profitability, Paul is perfectly placed to steer our paper and packaging business through this next chapter.

“As we mark 180 years of the James Cropper brand, Paul’s appointment forms part of our strategy for future growth, setting bold ambitions for our team and our customers. Paul will also play a key role in actioning our commitment to safeguarding a robust future for the industry, our community and the environment.”

Expanding from a largely papermaking focus, James Cropper now has significant presence in sectors including energy, aerospace, and luxury retail.

Last year James Cropper devised a pilot project, funded by Innovate UK, which recycled polycotton waste sourced from the UK’s commercial laundries into recyclable paper-making fibres. Lab trials for the pilot project showed promising results, with up to 98% of cotton fibres successfully recovered.

James Cropper’s Advanced Materials division is also involved in developing and manufacturing substrates and coatings for hydrogen generation and fuel cell technologies.