Packaging Veteran to Lead Flexible Packaging Group

Dan Felton leaves his post as Ameripen Executive Director to take over as the new President and CEO of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) on November 1, 2024. He replaces Alison Keane, who departed FPA in August.

Felton’s successful tenure at the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment (Ameripen) saw considerable change. “Anyone following packaging policy in the US knows that the past several years have brought seismic shifts to the industry in terms of new laws and regulations impacting the packaging industry,” Felton says. “I am very grateful to have been part of an amazing team of passionate and talented members, leaders, consultants and staff shaping that public policy in the best ways possible.”

His experience leading packaging-related associations and with sustainability legislation will serve him well in his new role. According to FPA, Felton will be “responsible for leading FPA’s dedicated team of professionals while growing the value of the organization and the flexible packaging industry to its members, partners, policymakers, and other stakeholders,” as well as for advocating on behalf of FPA members and the entire US flexible packaging industry. 

Over the years, Felton has been passionate about environmental and packaging issues and has lobbied extensively in those areas at both state and federal levels.

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William Jackson, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer for Amcor Flexibles and FPA Chair, says, “We are excited to have Dan Felton join us as FPA president. He is a proven leader with tremendous experience in the industry. I am confident Dan has the right approach to successfully navigate the FPA in the years ahead.”

In acknowledging his new role, Felton says, “FPA is well known for its strong, passionate leaders, talented staff, and members, and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with all of them to drive the organization forward and expand its reach.”

Regarding his departure from Ameripen, Kelly Smith, Vice President, Head of Institutional Affairs US for Ferrero and Ameripen President, wishes him luck in his new endeavor. “We’re grateful to Dan for his exceptional leadership over the past five years during a time of significant policy change in the packaging space,” Smith says. “His tireless advocacy on behalf of the entire packaging value chain and his pursuit of proactive policy positions has raised the profile of the organization significantly, strengthening even further its reputation as a trusted partner and subject matter expert for policymakers and industry stakeholders.”

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Ameripen has formed a committee to oversee its search for a new Executive Director, as part of its succession plan. If you are interested, or know of someone who might be qualified for the position, stay tuned. More details to come about how to apply.