Helen Dixon

Repak is an environmental not-for-profit established in 1997 to help member businesses meet their legal obligation to recycle the packaging they place on the Irish market.

Ms Dixon served as commissioner at the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) until February 2025.

From 2014 to 2024, she was the sole Data Protection Commissioner, completing two five-year terms in this role, where she was responsible for upholding individual rights and where the DPC was lead European data regulator in respect of multinational companies with European headquarters located in Ireland.

She was previously the Registrar of Companies and has held senior roles in the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, focusing on economic migration as well as science, technology and innovation policy.

Zoe Kavanagh, CEO of Repak, said: “Helen’s extensive knowledge of governance, policy development and operational delivery, along with her commitment to innovation is a welcome addition to an already strong Repak board.

“We look forward to working with Helen in spearheading innovation and best practice in packaging design and further developing Repak’s vision for the future.”

Tom Shipsey, chairman, added: “I am delighted to welcome Helen to our board of directors. Her international track record in both public and private sectors will be invaluable to Repak as we continue to lead and support our members nationwide.”

Ms Dixon said: “I’m delighted to take up this independent non-executive role on the board of Repak.

“In a world where so much is ‘fast’ and disposable, initiatives to reduce, reuse and recycle are critical to environmental sustainability.

“As regulatory requirements for packaging and recycling evolve, I’ll be especially keen to support Repak in identifying how best to encourage, incentivise and drive best practice and compliance.”