Container Exchange (COEX) has appointed Trevor Evans as its new Chief Executive Officer, following his eight-month tenure as Interim CEO.
COEX Board Chair Andrew Clark said the Board unanimously selected Evans following a recruitment process, citing his leadership and experience in working with stakeholders across the organisation and the broader industry.
“Over the past eight months, Trevor has demonstrated strong leadership, a deep commitment to our purpose and a genuine ability to bring people together around shared goals,” Clark said.
Evans has served as Interim CEO since January 2026, following the conclusion of Natalie Roach’s three-year tenure as CEO. COEX said his appointment would provide continuity as the organisation works on the ongoing improvement of Queensland’s container refund scheme.
Evans said he was honoured to take on the role permanently and acknowledged the support of COEX’s Board, employees and operators.
“Over the past several months, I’ve been incredibly impressed by the passion, expertise and commitment of our people,” he said.
“Together, we play an important role in delivering environmental, social and economic outcomes for Queensland through Containers for Change.”
Evans brings leadership experience across industry, government and recycling. He was previously CEO of the National Retail Association and served as the Federal Member for Brisbane. He also became Australia’s first dedicated minister responsible for recycling, waste and sustainability while in government.
He currently serves as Chair of Healthy Land & Water and as a Director of the South Bank Corporation.
According to COEX, more than 12.3 billion containers have been returned to refund points through Containers for Change since November 2018, resulting in $1.2 billion in 10-cent refunds being paid to Queenslanders.
Evans said he would focus on building on the organisation’s existing foundations and relationships.
“We have strong foundations, talented people and valuable partnerships across our network,” he said. “I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made, strengthening our stakeholder relationships and continuing to enhance the scheme for Queenslanders.”
