Smith takes over from the commercial manager at Aylesford Newsprint, Chris White. In his role, Smith will lead a council that represents members across the UK's recovered paper sector and will help to ensure the industry continues to be regarded as a key asset in the UK's environmental plans.

The managing director of Recycling UK, Neil Clarke, has been appointed as vice president and he will support Smith in the role.

Smith said: "It is key that the recovered paper industry is allowed to flourish and not be hemmed in by excessive interference.

"The CPI recovered paper sector will play a key role in ensuring development is not hampered."

CPI represents papermakers, tissue manufacturers, corrugated packaging producers and recovered paper merchants.