Rhys Thom

Expertise

Circular Business Models

Green Claims

Rhys is a strategic business leader specialising in driving transformational sustainability outcomes across the corporate, consultancy, and nonprofit sectors. With a career defined by the intersection of innovation and environmental stewardship, Rhys has established a reputation for implementing profitable circular economy models that deliver both commercial value and systemic change.

During a pivotal tenure as Global Lead for Product Circularity at Amazon, Rhys spearheaded the development of global circular economy strategies focused on products, packaging, and impact measurement. Notably, they launched pioneering circular certification standards in collaboration with leading global authorities, including WRAP and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Their work was instrumental in embedding circularity into core product development and advancing digital product passport initiatives, underpinned by the creation of rigorous metrics to track both environmental and business performance.

Prior to joining Amazon, Rhys served as Portfolio Director for Circular Economy & Sustainability at IDEO. Under their leadership, the practice achieved an exceptional 67% year-over-year revenue growth, driven by the cultivation of a world-class team of climate experts and the design of high-impact innovation programmes with partners such as Closed Loop Partners. As a Senior Design Lead, Rhys co-led the Design for Change Studio and La Victoria Lab, engaging with global executives on multi-year transformational initiatives focused on social impact and the global transition to a circular economy.

A dedicated advocate for systems-level change, Rhys leverages human-centered design and cross-sector collaboration to bridge the gap between sustainability goals and profitable business transformation. Their work continues to influence how global organisations navigate the transition toward a more regenerative and circular future.