Rob Tilsley

Fibre Specialist, James Cropper Paper & Packaging

Rob embarked on his career at James Cropper in 2004 as a Process Operator. After three years, he transitioned into sales, starting as an Inside Sales Executive. Over the next 15 years, Rob held various roles within the sales department, culminating in his promotion to UK Sales Manager. His exceptional performance led to his appointment as Regional Sales Manager, where he took on overall responsibility for the private label and mill collection business.

During a transformative period for the company, Rob embraced a new challenge by moving into operations. He now serves as the Fibre Specialist, overseeing the use of both virgin and recovered fibres on site—a key strategic priority for the company.

A Day in the Life

Rob's role is dynamic and varied. He collaborates with different departments to ensure uninterrupted supply chains, identifies and tests potential new fibres, engages with suppliers through calls and visits, and provides forecasts. No two days are the same, making his work both challenging and rewarding.

Career Highlights

Rob has many memorable moments from his tenure at James Cropper. In sales, he takes pride in growing strategic business accounts and transforming them into longstanding partnerships. On the fibre side, he enjoys identifying and introducing new fibres to the business and setting up the supply chain.

Proudest Achievement

Rob is particularly proud of the CupCycling programme, the world's first recycling process dedicated to upcycling takeaway drinks cups. This initiative has helped James Cropper forge key partnerships across various sectors. Rob's success in selling CupCycling products has now expanded to include growing the volume of cups recycled at their facility.