foodeshowTell us about yourself
I am the Vice President – Sustainability for the World Packaging Organisation but my every day role is the Executive for the Australian Institute of Packaging.
How would describe your professional career?
I have been in the packaging industry for 23 years now with my focus being on education and training and helping the people in the industry have every opportunity to learn, gain knowledge and enhance their skills and training.
Through the WPO I have the added opportunity to try and improve the awareness of the important role that packaging plays in minimizing food waste and how to develop Circular and Sustainable packaging. The WPO runs an annual global awards program that also enables an international platform for showcasing best practice examples of award-winning Sustainable Packaging and also Save Food Packaging.
Can you tell us about a time where you encountered a business challenge?
We all face challenges during our careers but the most challenging was trying to shift training and education programs on-line and virtually during and now after COVID-19. This was an extremely challenging time as everyone had to learn how to train and educate on-line in an effective manner but it was also a rewarding time as the insights have allowed new educational offerings that will stay long after the pandemic is over. The world actually got closer during the pandemic and it has allowed all of us across the global packaging industry to speak more, work together and improve the connectiveness of the community.
Which supporting skills do you think are most important when it comes to leadership?
There are so many things that are important. Gratitude and recognition of others is extremely important and acknowledgment of a job well done. I also think it is very important to congratulate people for their achievements, no matter how small and to allow everyone to shine. It is so important to recognise the abilities and skills that everyone brings to the table and to listen to the team around you. Everyone brings a different view and perspective to the table.
What steps do you take to make sure that projects are completed on time, on budget, and to the proper standard?
Planning and Preparation and ensuring that deadlines are et at all stages wherever possible.
What are you passionate about?
Ensuring that everyone understands that packaging has an important role to play in minimisng food waste in number one.
Recognition of people and companies who are doing great work in packaging design and innovation is number two.
Number three is helping educate and train people in the packaging industry and enabling those who are looking to improve their skill sets and knowledge gaps the opportunity to find a solution from across the globe.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Still doing what I love in an industry that I love and helping other people.
How do you see the food industry?
A thriving, dynamic industry that will continue to grow and provide opportunities for the world over.
The foodeshow in 2 words
A community
Your advice to the foodeshow community
Help other people – everyone has a role to play
