British papermaker James Cropper Paper and Packaging appointed Mike Gibson as Head of Business Development, strengthening its leadership team as it enters a new phase of growth focused on innovation and market expansion. Gibson joined the company earlier this year as Business Development Manager and brings more than 25 years of experience across the paper, packaging, and corrugated sectors, including carrier bags, food packaging, and merchant packaging, with roles spanning both UK and international markets.

Gibson’s career includes senior positions at Cepac, H-Pack, and ARC International in the United States, where he worked closely with corrugators nationwide. He has also been involved in packaging innovation projects such as the development of Marks and Spencer’s paper bag for life. “James Cropper is an exceptional name in the industry, with a heritage that spans centuries,” Gibson said. “It’s an exciting time at James Cropper. The business has a rich heritage, and now it’s evolving for the modern era.”

The appointment aligns with James Cropper’s push to broaden its market footprint and ensure customers better understand the range of solutions it can deliver. The company recently introduced Coloursource, a paper materials brand designed to support a wider set of packaging needs, from standard everyday applications to highly customised, high-value work. Gibson said the company aims to strengthen awareness of its capabilities while maintaining the premium, made-in-the-UK standards it is known for.

Gibson’s appointment comes alongside the naming of Julia Lawrence as Head of Regional Accounts. It follows the earlier appointment of Mickael Minot as Brand Owner Director, completing a restructuring of the sales organisation. All three roles report directly to Managing Director Paul Barber. “We are delighted to appoint Mike as Head of Business Development,” Barber said, adding that the company is now well positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities. Founded in 1845, family-owned James Cropper serves global markets with paper, packaging, and advanced fibre materials, focusing on innovation, custom solutions, and sustainability.