James Cropper celebrates six finalists at the 2026 Women in Packaging Excellence Awards, recognising leadership in recycling, marketing, and operations.
James Cropper has secured six finalist positions at the upcoming Women in Packaging Excellence Awards, a result that underscores the company’s focus on promoting female talent across its specialty paper and packaging operations. The nominations include five individual awards for professional excellence and a group nomination for the company’s wider packaging team.
The individual finalists represent a broad cross-section of the business, from technical and recycling innovation to marketing and sales leadership. Zoe Lovell and Jordan Scott have both been shortlisted for the Packaging Marketing & Brand Impact Award, while Charlotte Knowles is a finalist in the Packaging Operations Excellence category. Julia Lawrence has been recognised for her work in sales and business development, and Stephanie Walker, Head of Technical, is a finalist for Woman of the Year in Recycling & Circular Innovation.
In addition to these individual honours, James Cropper is a contender for the Packaging Services or Team Excellence Award, reflecting the collaborative efforts of the firm’s specialised packaging division.
Paul Barber, Managing Director of Paper & Packaging at James Cropper, said, “We are proud to be part of a team that is so committed to providing women with the opportunity to succeed. All of the finalists can be especially proud of themselves for all they bring to James Cropper day in, day out—overcoming challenges, inspiring others, and truly leading by example in our industry.”
Barber noted that the recognition of women in such varied roles—from technical and production to marketing—is a testament to the company’s efforts to break traditional industry barriers. He added, “There is always more we can do to break glass ceilings for female talent, but it’s important to take a moment and celebrate the trailblazers of today so that others can follow in the future.”
The Women in Packaging Excellence Awards 2026 aim to shine a spotlight on professionals across the entire packaging value chain. The winners will be selected by an independent panel of industry judges and announced at a ceremony at the Hilton Bankside in London on 18 June.
The success at these awards follows James Cropper’s continued investment in circular economy solutions and specialty paper innovation, areas where the company’s female leaders have played a pivotal role in driving market growth and technical development.
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