Joris Nachtergaele, former Deputy Managing Director of APEAL, is appointed Secretary General of Metal Packaging Europe

Metal Packaging Europe is the trade body representing the united interests of producers and suppliers of rigid metal packaging across Europe.. Membership covers more than 300 manufacturing sites, employing over 350,000 people. 75% of member companies are small and medium-sized enterprises. Together, they produce some 85bn units every year for the beverage, food, health & beauty, household and industrial markets. This means that on average 4 units are consumed weekly by every EU citizen.

In his new role, effective from January 1st 2015, Joris will be responsible for promoting the interests of Metal Packaging Europe’s members in Brussels.

“We are very pleased to confirm Joris’ appointment. He has the skill and knowledge to ensure our industry is fully represented with the European institutions“, says Peter Lockley, Chairman of Metal Packaging Europe “ And I’m sure he will act as a committed ambassador for metal and the circular economy”

As Secretary General, Joris will oversee engagement, awareness raising and partnering with policymakers, NGOs and other relevant stakeholders to realise metal packaging’s permanent recycling potential.

Joris has been Director External Affairs of Metal Packaging Europe since 2012. He previously served as Deputy Managing Director of APEAL, the Association of European Producers of Steel for Packaging. Prior to APEAL, Joris ran the office of MEP Frieda Brepoels where he acquired an in-depth knowledge of the European political and decision-making processes. He started his career as a legal advisor to the Belgian National Parliament and then the Belgian Government.

“I’m excited to be appointed to lead an organisation doing so much to achieve a truly circular economy in which resources can be properly managed and kept within the economy, used again and again and hence create further value,” says Joris Nachtergaele.

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