The UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO) has appointed Russell Davies as its new chief executive, ahead of the scheme’s launch in October 2027.

Davies, who officially start as UK DMO CEO on 5 January 2026, brings more than 25 years’ experience across logistics, supply chain management and commercial operations.

He joins from Hillebrand Gori, a DHL company specialising in beverage logistics, where he served as CEO for North Europe, the Middle East and Africa, overseeing the movement of millions of litres of drinks and spearheading low-carbon transport and digital innovation.

Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at GKN Automotive, DHL Freight UK and Savoye, with a strong track record in logistics automation and large-scale operational delivery.

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As CEO, it is expected that he will lead the business through its next phase, such as finalising the operational blueprint, consulting on Retail Handling Fee and Producer Fee structures, and appointing logistics, collection and recycling partners ahead of the scheme’s rollout.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a scheme that works for business, consumers and the environment,” said Davies. “My focus now is on delivery,  ensuring the DMO has the capability, partnerships and momentum to make this scheme a success.”

JUK DMO Board chair John Bason said Davies’ appointment was “another important step forward” in strengthening leadership and accelerating readiness.

“Russell brings extensive experience in managing complex operational networks and driving large-scale change,” he added. “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, which will be the UK’s largest environmental infrastructure programme to date, will cover PET plastic, steel and aluminium drinks containers between 150ml and 3 litres, aiming to reduce litter, improve recycling rates and support a circular economy.