The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has announced the appointment of Dan Cooke as its Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs.
Cooke served as CIWM President between 2023 and 2024 during which time he used his Presidential Report to showcase excellence in the UK’s recycling and resource recovery sector and its significant contribution to the UK economy.
CIWM said Cooke is an experienced environmental and communications professional whose career in the waste sector spans 30 years. This includes 21 years with Pennon Group, most recently as Group Head of Sustainability and previously as Director of Regulatory Affairs at Viridor.
In this newly created role, Cooke will lead CIWM’s policy and external affairs work and spearhead the organisation’s relationships with government and other stakeholders.
CIWM said he will amplify the CIWM membership’s voice, positively influence policy and increase awareness of the sector’s contribution to net zero and its response to climate change.
Cooke will also oversee CIWM’s brand, marketing and communications activities.
I’m looking forward to joining the CIWM team and working to further strengthen the voice of its members.
Commenting on the appointment, CIWM’s CEO, Sarah Poulter, said: “We are delighted to have been able to attract someone of Dan’s calibre into what is an exciting new role for CIWM.
“The resources, waste, and circular economy space is rapidly evolving and this appointment will ensure that we increase our capability as an influencing force and maintain our position as the voice of the sector.
Cooke has resigned from his position on the CIWM Board and will take up his new role in September this year.
Reacting to his appointment, Cooke said: “I’m looking forward to joining the CIWM team and working to further strengthen the voice of its members. This is a pivotal time for the resources and waste sector.
“There are a number of important policy measures in play that can significantly improve the UK’s resource efficiency and reduce carbon emissions and, vitally, support a more circular and vibrant economy.”
