Veolia ANZ appoints new CEO

Veolia is moving into a new chapter in its development, leading to new appointments in its Australian and New Zealand operations.

CEO and Managing Director Richard Kirkman, who has led Veolia ANZ for almost six years, will be succeeded by the company’s Chief Operating Officer Resource Recovery, Craig Barker.

Barker has been with Veolia group for more than 17 years in Australia. He is recognised as a leading infrastructure leader with a strong focus on diverting waste from landfill through recycling, resource recovery and energy from waste.

The company said Barker’s deep experience and understanding of the local market makes him well placed to lead the ANZ in its next phase of growth.

Craig Barker, new CEO and Managing Director of Veolia ANZ. Image: Supplied.

“I am humbled to be given this leadership role as our Australian and New Zealand businesses gather momentum,” Barker said. “With the region’s circular economy accelerating, it will create new opportunities for Veolia to serve our Australian and New Zealand customers and those visionary businesses poised to play a key role in the future. As a priority geography for Veolia’s growth, the ANZ region offers strong potential for the deployment of our world-class expertise in waste, water and energy, positioning us well for future growth.”

The leadership change comes as the company accelerates its Green Up strategy through sustainably boosting its growth trajectory, fostering innovation and driving international expansion while maintaining the strength of its operational performance.

“Richard set the tone for our region in the first phase of our Green Up strategy, which has seen Veolia move into new markets and bring new technologies to Australia. I look forward to solidifying and building on that strong foundation,” Barker said.

Image credit: iStock.com/Nuthawut Somsuk