James Cropper plc, the Kendal-based paper and packaging company, said on Thursday it appointed Andy Walton as Managing Director, James Cropper Advanced Materials, with effect from July 29. 

Walton, who has more than 30 years experience in the chemicals, sustainable solutions, and advanced materials sectors, will become a member of the firm’s executive committee and report directly to the chief executive. He was previously Strategic Business Unit Director, Transport, at Victrex plc.

Cropper said Walton’s priorities will be to execute on the advanced materials unit’s strategic growth plan, including identifying short-term growth opportunities and supporting an implementation plan for capturing mid- to long-term growth in hydrogen, aerospace and automotive markets.