Willink to head up innovation at James Cropper

As part of a new strategy to accelerate growth across the UK-based James Cropper Group and drive future growth through innovation, Patrick Willink has been appointed to the new position of chief innovation officer.

Willink will lead a Centre for Innovation at James Cropper, bringing a wealth of experience to this role, as former paper operations director, group chief technology officer, and most recently managing director of Colourform, James Cropper’s award-winning luxury packaging division.

with ENCON Evaporators in Hooksett, New Hampshire, during which he earned a bachelor of science degree. While attending college, he continued his career with ENCON, holding a range of positions from 2007 to 2023 including purchasing manager, operations and production manager, and supply chain manager.

“We are fortunate to welcome Steve to our leadership team,” said chief executive Richard Verney. “He consistently performed beyond expectations in positions of increasing responsibility during his tenure at ENCON. His skills in planning, management and communications will serve Monadnock well in today’s challenging business climate.”