Adviser on Circular Economy, European Commission, Directorate-General for the Environment

William Neale is an advisor for circular economy at the European Commission (Directorate-General for the Environment). His work primarily focuses on the circular economy in relation to climate, digital technologies, employment, and European financing, with special responsibilities concerning the Sustainable Products Regulation for eco-design, the Digital Product Passport, and the Sustainable Finance Taxonomy.

Mr. Neale previously worked for 11 years as a member of the Cabinet (office) of European Commissioners for science and research, and for environment, fisheries, and maritime affairs. He began his career in public service, working for 7 years in the Directorate-General of the European Commission for Enterprise and Industry, responsible for the social economy and coordination of SME programs.

Prior to this, he spent 13 years in the private sector in international banking, retail, social entrepreneurship, and consulting. He graduated from the University of Manchester (UK) with a degree specializing in Economics and History, and holds a Master of Arts in Economics (M.A. Econ) also from the University of Manchester.