Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) operator, UK Deposit Management Organisation (DMO), has appointed Russell Davies as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Davies brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across global logistics, supply chain management and commercial strategy. Most recently, he served as CEO for North Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Hillebrand Gori, a DHL company specialising in beverage logistics, where he led teams across multiple international markets.
Davies will lead the DMO in driving operational delivery, accelerating readiness, and ensuring all parts of the DRS are prepared for launch in October 2027. In the coming months this will see the organisation finalising its operational blueprint, consulting on the design of the Retail Handling Fee and Producer Fee structures and identifying the logistics, collection and recycling partners for the scheme.
Davies said: “It’s an honour to join UK DMO at such a pivotal moment. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a scheme that works for business, for consumers and for the environment – a system that changes how the UK manages packaging and recycling.
“I’ve spent my career building and leading commercial operations at scale, and I know success depends on clarity, collaboration and execution. My focus now is on delivery – making sure the DMO has the capability, partnerships and momentum to make this scheme a success.
“That work is already underway. We’ve published our Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) specification, established our headquarters in Milton Keynes, and are expanding our leadership team across key functions. At the same time, we’re working hand-in-hand with industry, government and supply chain partners to ensure the scheme is designed with their needs in mind and can be delivered in a way that works for everyone.”
John Bason, Chair of the UK DMO Board, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Russell to the DMO. His appointment marks another important step forward as we strengthen our leadership team and accelerate preparations for delivery. Russell brings extensive experience in managing complex operational networks and working across business and government to achieve large-scale change. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the DMO is ready to deliver a scheme that is practical, efficient and trusted by the public.”
The Deposit Return Scheme is due to launch in October 2027. It will cover drinks containers made from PET plastic, steel and aluminium between 150 ml and 3 litres, reducing litter, improving recycling and supporting the transition to a more circular economy. It will be the largest environmental infrastructure programme of its kind ever delivered in the UK.
