Visy distances itself from former manager

The article reports that a former senior Visy manager, Craig Smith, gave character evidence in 2007 for Hells Angels East County chapter president Stephen James Rogers. Rogers was later convicted of drug trafficking, and Visy has publicly distanced itself from Smith’s statements, saying he acted without the company’s approval and had left full-time employment in 2005.

Stephen James Rogers is a veteran Hells Angels member who ran a trucking company contracted by Visy. Police investigations found almost a kilogram of chemicals used to make amphetamines and about 200 grams of amphetamines at his home, plus two parcels of amphetamines in a Visy work jacket. He was sentenced in 2007 to three years’ prison for drug trafficking.

Yes. The article states Visy contracted a company founded and run by Rogers to transport its paper products. These were long-term contracts, and Rogers was reportedly serving his sentence on home detention while the company continued to transport Visy goods.

Visy’s chief executive John Murphy said the company was 'very concerned and upset' and that it is 'dealing with it appropriately.' He said he contacted Victorian Police Chief Commissioner Simon Overland’s office, pledged full cooperation with any police investigation, and promised immediate action if illegal activity by a supplier is found to be connected to Visy operations.

The article notes police found drug-making chemicals in Rogers’ trucking yard near Visy-badged trailers and two parcels of amphetamines in his Visy work jacket. Police intelligence from 2004 also suggested Rogers may have used his trucks to move precursor chemicals. Visy, however, has said it will act if evidence proves a direct connection to its operations.

Visy said Craig Smith gave his courtroom testimony without the company’s approval and after he had stopped working full-time for Visy in 2005. The company acknowledged Smith had occasionally worked as a consultant after leaving his full-time role but distanced itself from his claim that 'Visy would stand by' Rogers.

Investors should watch for updates on any police investigation and official findings, public statements from Visy about supplier audits or contract changes, and disclosures about governance or risk-management actions. These developments could affect reputation and operational risk, so timely company updates are important.

According to the article, Visy’s CEO said the company is committed to full cooperation with police and that 'if evidence of illegal activity by one of our suppliers is found to be connected to our operations we will take immediate action.'