2025 Starpack Students Awards Ceremony

Packaging Manager, Suntory

James Dockree

I have worked within packaging development since graduating 14 years ago with experiences in many packaging formats and materials having worked in various food and beverage companies including Crown packaging, Kenco Coffee and Hovis. For more than 2 years I have been packaging manager for Suntory, delivering packaging innovation and sustainability to our iconic Ribena and Lucozade brands.

Head of R&D & Sustainable Packaging, Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd

Lee Emery FIMMM

Lee has over 20 years’ experience in FMCG food & beverage packaging, expertise in packaging materials, design, and technology. He’s managed technical teams, brand strategies and overseen diverse portfolios. He has built strong relationships across R&D, New Product Development (NPD), technical, operations, quality, logistics and procurement. A motivating team leader who relishes the opportunity to coach and develop colleagues.

 

Director of Research & Policy, INCPEN

Paldeep Bhatti

Paldeep Bhatti is Director of Research & Policy for the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN). Paldeep joined INCPEN in May 2021 having over a decade of experience in local government, specifically within resource and waste management.

A continued focus for INCPEN is working with all four UK governments to design and implement a set of packaging reforms that are cost-efficient and delivery environmental benefits. This includes Extended Producer Responsibility, Deposit Return Systems and ‘consistency’ of the range of packaging materials collected from all 27 million UK households.

Project Manager, Logoplaste Innovation Lab UK

Darren Wingrove

Darren has been working within the plastics industry for over 33 years and is currently working alongside Chris Clarke & John George for Logoplaste Innovation Lab UK – a world leading independent division of the Logoplaste Group, exclusively dedicated to the research and development of sustainable rigid plastic packaging.

After studying as a Toolmaking and Advanced Machine setter primarily around injection tool and machine design, Darren joined Logoplaste 21 years ago, he has industry experience working in Plastics injection, Blow moulding processing and Project Management and has led operations as a Production and Development Manager. Darren’s actively works as part of a 3 person Uk team supporting both Logoplaste customers and independents advising and developing packaging from its concept stage through to industrialization.

Darren has been involved in the Starpack Award sponsor over the last 4 years and has been the Starpack leader for the past 3 years.

Area Sales Manager, Winter & Company UK Ltd

Abbie Smith

Area sales manager for the South of England, including all brands and design agencies within London and the Southern Area.

Consultant, Valpak

Lorraine Wilson

With a background in packaging design and technology within the paper corrugated industry, Lorraine joined Valpak in 2023 having worked in retail for over 30 years setting packaging standards with suppliers and factories and ensuring compliance with the Packaging Waste Regulations were met. Lorraine works with our customers to review their packaging and find innovative ways to reduce environmental impact, such as changing packaging designs to reduce waste, and carbon emissions and mitigate EPR costs.

Director & Chief Executive, Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA)

Jason Galley

Jason joined MPMA in 2023, beginning his career as a metallurgist at Carnaud Metal Box (now Crown Holdings Inc) and holding subsequent senior positions at companies including American National Can, Alcan Packaging, Aerocan, as well as 12 years at Ball Corporation, Jason brings 33 years’ industry experience in the metal packaging industry. He has worked across many steel and aluminium packaging sectors including beverage, food, pharmaceutical, household, and personal care.

Design Director, WestRock

Linh Kooc

Linh Kooc is an accomplished Design Director with a remarkable career spanning over 8 years at WestRock Company. Based in Bristol, England, Linh leads the System Food and Beverage Europe division, orchestrating innovative packaging solutions with finesse and precision.

Linh's journey into the world of design began at MeadWestvaco (MWV), where a tenure of over 4 years honed expertise in beverage and food packaging for the Canadian market. Linh crafted impactful designs that resonated with consumers and brands alike.

Driven by a passion for sustainability and innovation, Linh is known for leading high-priority initiatives, ensuring projects progress seamlessly from conception to commercialization. Armed with proficiency in CAD design, user experience analysis, and global collaboration, Linh continues to push the boundaries of design excellence, creating impactful packaging solutions and staying ahead of industry trends.