LARAC announces new appointments
The organisation welcomes Tom McBeth as its new Policy Officer and announces that its Policy and Communications Lead Toni McNamara has been appointed replace current Executive Director Carole Taylor later this year.
Carole Taylor, LARAC's Executive Director, has decided to take early retirement from the end of October 2024, having been involved with LARAC in various roles since 2002. Toni McNamara, currently LARAC's Policy and Communications Lead, will step into the role of Executive Director. Lucy Bennett will also take on additional responsibilities in the new role of Business Support Lead, while Mariana McManus will continue to support LARAC as Support Officer.
Commenting on the changes Carole said: "Since 1985, LARAC has grown so much and from its humble beginnings with just a handful of members back then, it now stands as the voice of 80 per cent of all UK councils with nearly 1200 individual officer members.
“I am immensely proud of what LARAC has done and continues to achieve for members, having been in local government for 19 years as one of those officers grappling with challenges, seeking the help, support, and vital information that LARAC provides. LARAC has got a great team to continue the excellent work we provide to our members. And now, as I prepare to pass the baton, I do so with confidence. LARAC is in capable hands, and I feel now is the right time for me to hand over the reins knowing it will continue to thrive under their leadership."
In addition to the leadership changes, LARAC has appointed Tom McBeth to the newly created role of Policy Officer. Tom joins LARAC from RECOUP, where he spent almost five years as their Policy and Infrastructure Manager, conducting research, data analysis, and report writing on plastics use, disposal, and recycling.
Toni McNamara welcomed the LARAC team’s new addition: "Tom is looking forward to advocating for all LARAC members on policy issues as we navigate the stormy waters of waste policy. As we continue to have uncertain but exciting times for everyone in the sector, I am sure Tom will bring a great deal of knowledge and experience to this new and exciting role; he will be a great asset to LARAC, and we are delighted to welcome him to the team."
Speaking on his appointment Tom said: "I cannot wait to get stuck into my role here at LARAC. I am ready for this new challenge and looking forward to representing our members' views on all things recycling, resources and waste, especially the policies arising from the Collection and Packaging Reforms."
