Entries by Manager

The Plastic Tax: A Cost of Doing Business or a Catalyst for Genuine Innovation?

In recent years, sustainability has shifted from a peripheral concern to a strategic imperative. Regulations such as the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) in the UK—and similar measures emerging globally—reflect a growing expectation: organisations must take responsibility for the environmental impact of their packaging choices. But as these taxes take hold, a critical question arises: Are […]

Resumes that Stand Out in Packaging & Print: Avoiding Common Mistakes and Highlighting Achievements

In the fast-paced world of packaging, printing, and related manufacturing sectors, employers are looking for more than just experience—they want candidates who clearly demonstrate their technical capabilities, project results, and ability to drive innovation. Yet many talented professionals undersell themselves simply because their resumes lack clarity, industry relevance, or measurable achievements. At Athena Executive Search, […]

5 Packaging Trends That Will Define the Next Decade: A View from Both Sides of the Atlantic

As the global packaging sector undergoes unprecedented transformation, organisations across North America and Europe are preparing for a decade defined by rapid innovation, stricter sustainability expectations, and evolving consumer demands. The companies that will lead the future of packaging are those investing today in strategic leadership, emerging technologies, and circular business models. Below, Athena Executive […]

From Labor Shortages to Leadership Gaps: Navigating the Workforce Crisis in Print & Packaging

The print and packaging sector stands at a pivotal moment. While the industry continues to evolve—driven by automation, sustainability imperatives, and shifting customer expectations—organisations face a growing challenge that directly impacts performance and profitability: a critical shortage of talent at every level of the workforce. Today’s talent crisis extends beyond production floors. It is equally […]

Smart Packaging 2.0: Moving Beyond QR Codes to True Consumer Engagement and Supply Chain Visibility

In the ever-evolving packaging landscape, “smart packaging” is entering a new era. What began as simple QR codes and NFC tags that linked consumers to websites has now matured into a sophisticated ecosystem driving real-time engagement, traceability, and brand trust. As global supply chains become more complex and consumer expectations rise, the packaging industry is […]

The Bio-Based Balancing Act: Performance vs. Sustainability in Materials Sourcing

In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, the pursuit of sustainability has become a defining factor in corporate strategy. As businesses face increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact and align with ESG objectives, one of the most complex challenges lies in materials sourcing — specifically, balancing the use of bio-based materials with the performance standards that […]

The Plastic Tax: A Cost of Doing Business or a Catalyst for Genuine Innovation in Packaging and Print?

Across the globe, governments are tightening environmental regulations and introducing plastic taxes to curb the use of virgin plastics and promote circular economies. For many within the packaging and print industry, these levies initially appeared to be just another operational cost—an unavoidable hit to profitability in an already competitive market. But forward-thinking companies are now […]

The ROI of Training: Why Investing in Skill Development Pays Off

In an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving business environment, the most valuable investment any organization can make is in its people. While technology, systems, and strategy are critical, it is the capability and adaptability of the workforce that ultimately determine long-term success. Forward-thinking leaders understand that training and development are not expenses — they are […]

The Silent Salesperson in an Online World: Redefining the Role of Packaging for the E-commerce Era

In today’s digital-first marketplace, consumers often meet brands not through a friendly salesperson or an elegant store display—but through a parcel on their doorstep. As e-commerce continues to surge, packaging has evolved from a practical necessity to a powerful marketing tool. It’s the “silent salesperson” that communicates brand values, evokes emotion, and reinforces customer loyalty—all […]