Solvent-based inks continue to play a critical role in the packaging and print sector, particularly in applications where performance, durability, and production efficiency are essential. Their strong adhesion to non-porous substrates, fast drying times, and consistent colour strength make them indispensable across flexible packaging, labels, and industrial print environments.
While alternative ink technologies continue to develop, solvent-based systems remain the preferred choice for high-volume packaging operations where reliability and quality cannot be compromised. For brand owners and converters, this performance directly supports shelf appeal, brand integrity, and operational consistency.
At the same time, the ongoing use of solvent-based inks brings increasing complexity. Regulatory requirements, sustainability expectations, and workplace safety considerations all demand experienced leadership oversight. Organisations require executives who understand both the technical realities of packaging print and the broader strategic direction of the industry.
Athena Executive Search specialises exclusively in executive recruitment for the packaging and print sector. We work in close partnership with our clients to identify senior leaders who combine deep industry expertise with commercial and operational insight, helping businesses perform today while preparing for the future.
If your organisation is looking to strengthen its leadership capability within packaging or print, we invite you to connect with Athena Executive Search to discuss how our sector-focused executive search services can support your growth and long-term success.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-12-16 06:11:542025-12-16 06:11:54Solvent-Based Inks: A Cornerstone of Packaging Print Performance
The packaging industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. Driven by global sustainability goals, regulatory pressures, and rapidly shifting consumer expectations, organisations are rethinking materials, processes, and supply chains. As sustainability evolves from a “nice to have” to a core business priority, packaging professionals who invest in upskilling now will be the ones who thrive in the years ahead.
At Athena Executive Search, we continue to see rising demand for leaders who combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of environmental impact, circularity, and innovation. The professionals who stand out are not just reacting to change—they’re proactively equipping themselves to lead it.
Why Sustainability Skills Are No Longer Optional
1. Regulatory Demands Are Reshaping the Industry
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), carbon reporting requirements, and stricter recycling standards are transforming how packaging is designed and produced. Organisations need professionals who understand these regulations and can translate them into actionable, compliant strategies.
2. Consumer Expectations Are Driving Innovation
Consumers increasingly prioritise environmentally responsible brands. Companies must innovate around renewable materials, lightweighting, refill systems, and waste reduction. Professionals who can help organisations meet these expectations gain a competitive edge.
3. Sustainability Is Now a Strategic Business Function
Sustainability is no longer confined to specialised teams. Today, roles in R&D, operations, procurement, marketing, and supply chain must integrate sustainability principles into everyday decision-making. This broad integration requires new skills across all functions.
Key Skills Packaging Professionals Should Develop
1. Circular Economy & Material Science Knowledge
Understanding the lifecycle of materials—recyclability, compostability, carbon impact—is becoming essential. Skills in renewable materials, advanced polymers, and lifecycle assessment (LCA) are especially valuable.
2. Data & Environmental Impact Analysis
The ability to interpret LCA results, carbon data, and regulatory metrics allows professionals to guide sustainable decision-making with clarity and precision.
3. Design for Sustainability (DfS)
Professionals should master design principles that reduce waste, improve recovery, and extend product life. This includes working closely with engineering and supply chain teams to deliver optimal solutions.
4. Leadership & Change Management
Implementing sustainability initiatives requires more than technical knowledge—it demands influence, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to lead cultural change.
Attend industry sustainability conferences and workshops to stay ahead of emerging trends.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gain exposure to the full sustainability ecosystem.
Seek mentorship from leaders who have already navigated the sustainability transition.
Follow global regulations and emerging technologies to anticipate shifts before they occur.
Investing in these skills will not only strengthen your current role but also open pathways to new, future-focused opportunities.
The Future Belongs to Sustainable Leaders
The packaging industry needs innovators who can balance performance, cost, and environmental responsibility. As sustainability accelerates, professionals who upskill now will be the ones guiding companies through transformation—shaping the industry and defining their careers in the process.
Call to Action
At Athena Executive Search, we specialise in connecting top packaging talent with organisations driving meaningful sustainability progress. If you’re looking to upskill, explore new opportunities, or strengthen your team with sustainability-focused leaders, we’re here to support you.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your career goals or talent needs. Together, we can build a more innovative and sustainable future for the packaging industry.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-12-11 11:33:202025-12-11 11:33:20Upskilling for Sustainability: How Packaging Professionals Can Future-Proof Their Careers
In an industry as technically demanding and rapidly evolving as packaging and print, organizations are facing a dual challenge: the accelerating pace of innovation and an increasingly competitive talent landscape. As automation, sustainability requirements, and digital print technologies reshape the field, companies must prioritize strategic upskilling to remain competitive.
One of the most effective—and often underutilized—development strategies is structured mentorship. Pairing seasoned employees with new hires not only accelerates learning but also builds a culture of collaboration, retention, and long-term organizational strength.
Why Mentorship Is Essential in Packaging & Print
The packaging and print sector relies heavily on deep technical expertise, operational efficiency, and precision. New hires entering this environment often face steep learning curves in areas such as:
Press operations and color management
Materials science and sustainable substrates
Quality systems and compliance
Supply chain visibility and automation technologies
Customer-centric project management
While formal training lays the groundwork, mentorship provides something training alone cannot: practical wisdom transferred through real-world experience.
Experienced employees hold invaluable institutional knowledge—how to troubleshoot press issues quickly, how to manage complex client expectations, or how to lead a production team through a challenging job. Passing that knowledge to newer talent ensures continuity and performance across the entire operation.
The Competitive Advantage of a Mentorship Culture
Companies that implement mentorship programs benefit from:
1. Faster Ramp-Up and Productivity
New hires gain confidence and competence more quickly when supported by a dedicated mentor who provides hands-on guidance.
2. Stronger Retention and Engagement
Mentorship creates a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing turnover—a critical factor in an industry where skilled labor shortages are rising.
3. Leadership Pipeline Development
Mentoring builds the next generation of supervisors, plant managers, and technical experts by exposing emerging talent to real leadership scenarios.
4. Knowledge Transfer and Risk Reduction
As seasoned employees move toward retirement, mentorship ensures vital operational knowledge remains inside the organization.
5. A Culture of Continuous Learning
Mentorship reinforces an environment where upskilling is ongoing and employees feel invested in their own growth.
How Packaging & Print Leaders Can Implement Effective Mentorship Programs
To maximize impact, companies should consider:
Formal Pairings: Match new hires with experienced mentors based on skills and career goals.
Structured Plans: Define timelines, learning objectives, and competencies for the mentorship journey.
Cross-Functional Exposure: Encourage mentees to spend time with departments beyond their own.
Feedback Loops: Create regular checkpoints between HR, mentors, and mentees.
Recognition: Celebrate mentors who contribute to organizational growth and talent strength.
Mentorship doesn’t need to be complex—but it must be intentional.
Athena Executive Search: Your Partner in Talent Development for Packaging & Print
At Athena Executive Search, we understand the unique demands of the packaging and print industry. Beyond recruiting top talent, we help organizations build sustainable leadership pipelines through smart hiring, upskilling strategies, and talent development insights.
Our specialization allows us to match companies with candidates who not only meet technical needs but also thrive in mentorship-driven cultures.
Call to Action
If you’re ready to strengthen your workforce, accelerate new-hire success, and build lasting organizational resilience, Athena Executive Search is here to help.
Contact us to discuss how mentorship and strategic talent development can transform your business and prepare your teams for long-term success.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-12-09 10:05:022025-12-09 10:05:02Mentorship Matters: Pairing Experienced Employees with New Hires for Lasting Growth
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 companies treating the Plastic Tax merely as a cost of doing business, or as a catalyst for meaningful innovation and competitive advantage?
A Necessary Compliance or a Strategic Turning Point?
For many businesses, the introduction of the Plastic Tax has triggered a familiar response—absorb the cost, pass it on to customers, or adjust margins. But this compliance-led mentality misses the broader opportunity. The organisations leading the way view the tax not as a burden, but as a signal to accelerate transformation.
These companies are leveraging sustainability pressures to:
Rethink product and packaging design
Adopt recyclable or bio-based materials
Invest in circular economy models
Rebuild supply chains with transparency and resilience in mind
Such moves do more than mitigate tax liability—they redefine value propositions, appeal to increasingly eco-conscious customers, and build long-term brand equity.
Innovation as a Response to Regulation
The Plastic Tax has already begun to influence trends across the manufacturing and packaging sectors. We’re seeing a marked rise in:
1. Recycled Content Integration
Demand for high-quality post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials has surged, prompting investment in advanced recycling technologies and smarter material sourcing strategies.
2. Material Science Advancements
Innovators are developing lightweight, stronger, more sustainable materials—often reducing overall material use rather than simply opting for “greener” plastics.
3. Circular Economy Partnerships
Manufacturers, retailers, waste managers, and technology providers are collaborating at unprecedented levels to keep materials circulating longer and more efficiently.
4. Digitalisation for Traceability
From blockchain to advanced sensors, digital tools are helping companies track recycled content, ensure compliance, and optimise material flows.
Regulation is no longer just a compliance framework—it’s an innovation engine.
The Leadership Imperative
Innovation does not happen in a vacuum. It is led—by teams who recognise that change is not only inevitable, but advantageous.
In this environment, organisations require leaders who can:
Navigate shifting regulatory landscapes
Drive sustainable transformation without compromising profitability
Inspire cross-functional collaboration
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation
Translate sustainability into commercial opportunity
The Plastic Tax is not simply a challenge for operations and compliance teams; it is a strategic leadership issue.
A Future Defined by Forward-Thinking Talent
As pressure intensifies—from governments, consumers, and global supply chains—those with the right leadership will turn regulatory constraints into differentiators. The companies that thrive will be those that invest in visionary, technically skilled, sustainability-minded executives capable of delivering long-term transformation.
At Athena Executive Search, we see firsthand how pivotal these leaders are in shaping the future of manufacturing, packaging, and materials innovation. The organisations embracing innovation today will be the ones redefining their industries tomorrow.
Call to Action
If your organisation is navigating sustainability challenges or seeking to capitalise on the opportunities created by the Plastic Tax, the right talent will be your most powerful asset.
Athena Executive Search specialises in identifying and securing the innovation-driven leaders who can guide your organisation through this era of transformation.
👉 Connect with us today to discuss how we can support your leadership and talent strategy: Email: enquiries@athena-executive.com
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-12-04 13:00:262025-12-04 13:00:26The Plastic Tax: A Cost of Doing Business or a Catalyst for Genuine Innovation?
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, we work closely with leaders and technical specialists in packaging, print, and FMCG-supporting industries. Below, we share practical insights to help your resume rise above the competition.
1. Showcase Industry-Specific Technical Expertise
General descriptions won’t capture the attention of hiring managers who understand the complexity of packaging and print operations. Be specific about your technical toolkit.
Highlight the technologies and systems you work with
Sustainability has become a hiring priority across packaging and print. If you have contributed to eco-friendly materials, waste reduction, or compliance improvements, make sure these initiatives are clearly highlighted.
Examples of strong sustainability statements
“Led LCA assessments resulting in a 22% reduction in packaging footprint.”
“Introduced recyclable mono-material structures, improving recyclability from 30% to 90%.”
“Implemented ink and solvent recovery systems reducing hazardous waste by 40%.”
These specifics show not only environmental awareness but also strategic thinking and innovation.
4. Avoid Common Resume Mistakes
Even highly skilled professionals fall into these traps:
Overly generic job titles
If your title doesn’t reflect the breadth of your work, clarify it:
“Production Manager (Flexo & Digital)” rather than simply “Production Manager.”
Lack of context
Always provide scale:
Team size
Budget responsibility
Facility throughput
Number of SKUs managed
Not tailoring your resume to specialised roles
A prepress specialist, a packaging engineer, and a plant manager each require different emphases. Make sure the resume matches the target role.
Neglecting soft skills valued in the sector
Leadership in technical teams
Cross-functional collaboration with sales, design, procurement or R&D
Process troubleshooting under pressure
Client-facing communication for print accuracy & approvals
These are critical differentiators.
5. Structure Your Resume for Maximum Impact
A clear, modern layout improves readability and conveys professionalism.
Suggested structure
Professional Summary (3–4 lines tailored to your niche)
Awards, Publications, or Patents (optional but impactful)
Make sure your summary communicates your value to the industry—not just your job title.
Final Thoughts: Packaging & Print Resumes Must Tell a Story of Technical Impact
In a competitive industry where precision, efficiency, and innovation matter, your resume should reflect the depth of your contributions. A well-crafted CV helps employers immediately recognise your fit, experience, and potential to drive results.
Ready to Advance Your Career in Packaging & Print?
At Athena Executive Search, we specialise in connecting top-tier talent with leading companies across packaging, print, manufacturing, and FMCG. If you’re ready to elevate your resume or explore new opportunities:
👉 Send your CV to our team for a confidential review 👉 Connect with us for guidance on positioning yourself for senior roles 👉 Let us help you take the next step in your professional journey
Your expertise deserves to stand out—let’s make sure it does.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-12-02 10:30:592025-12-02 10:30:59Resumes that Stand Out in Packaging & Print: Avoiding Common Mistakes and Highlighting Achievements
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 Search outlines the five key trends shaping the industry on both sides of the Atlantic—and what they mean for businesses preparing for the future.
1. Sustainability Becomes Mandatory, Not Optional
Sustainability is no longer a differentiator but a baseline expectation for packaging manufacturers, brands, and retailers. European firms, driven by robust EU legislation, are advancing faster in recyclable, compostable, and reusable packaging materials. Meanwhile, North American organisations are increasing their sustainability investments as consumer awareness rises and state-level regulations intensify.
Key industry shifts include:
Expansion of recyclable mono-material packaging
Increased use of bio-based and compostable alternatives
Investments in carbon-neutral or low-emission production
Adoption of circular recycling systems across supply chains
Success will depend on how businesses adapt to varying regional regulations while maintaining consistent global sustainability commitments.
2. Digitalisation Redefines Packaging Operations
Artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven workflows are transforming packaging plants and supply chains. Europe has generally led the Industry 4.0 transition, but North American companies are rapidly investing in smart manufacturing systems to enhance agility, efficiency, and accuracy.
Digital transformation is driving advancements such as:
Automated quality control using AI and machine vision
Predictive analytics for inventory and production planning
Digital twins that streamline design and operational testing
Fully connected production lines for real-time optimisation
These technologies reduce cost, minimise waste, and enable more flexible and personalised production for customers.
3. Consumer-Centric Design Takes Centre Stage
Consumers are demanding packaging that is functional, intuitive, sustainable, and aesthetically aligned with brand values. Packaging is becoming a crucial marketing asset, shaping perception, loyalty, and product differentiation.
Emerging design priorities include:
Easy-opening, ergonomic packaging formats
Premiumised materials and finishing to elevate brand value
Personalised and short-run designs enabled by digital print
Clean, minimalist design in Europe vs. bold experiences in the U.S.
Brands that invest in user experience and emotional connection through packaging will hold a competitive advantage.
4. Intelligent and Connected Packaging Gains Momentum
Smart packaging—once considered niche—is moving into mainstream adoption. Digital features such as QR codes, RFID, and NFC are being integrated to enhance transparency, safety, and brand engagement.
Current and emerging applications include:
Authentication and anti-counterfeit protection
Track-and-trace capabilities for regulated sectors
Access to dynamic, real-time product information
Digital storytelling, loyalty programs, and interactive content
While Europe’s regulatory-driven approach focuses on traceability, the North American market is expanding consumer-facing applications that strengthen brand interaction.
Circularity is increasingly becoming a business mandate rather than a sustainability goal. Both continents recognise the urgent need to break away from the traditional linear production model.
Key circular practices gaining traction include:
Reusable and refillable packaging systems
Deposit return schemes for high-value materials
Design for disassembly and material recovery
Strategic reverse logistics partnerships
European policy frameworks continue to accelerate circular adoption, while North America is seeing strong innovation driven by retailers and global brands seeking competitive advantage.
What This Means for Leadership and Talent
These transformative shifts call for a new generation of leaders—individuals who combine sustainability expertise, digital fluency, operational agility, and international awareness. As competition for such talent intensifies across the Atlantic, organisations must adopt proactive, forward-thinking recruitment strategies.
Athena Executive Search specialises in securing high-calibre leaders who can accelerate innovation and drive transformational growth within the packaging sector.
Partner With Athena Executive Search
Is your organisation prepared for the decade ahead? Athena Executive Search supports packaging companies across North America and Europe in identifying and attracting the leaders who will shape the industry’s future.
Let’s build the leadership capability your business needs to thrive.
Contact Athena Executive Search today to begin your search for exceptional talent.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-11-25 10:18:062025-11-25 10:18:065 Packaging Trends That Will Define the Next Decade: A View from Both Sides of the Atlantic
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 evident in boardrooms, where leadership gaps are emerging at a time when strategic direction, operational excellence, and innovation are more important than ever.
Labour Shortages: A Challenge Reshaping Operational Realities
Across the sector, companies are contending with persistent labour shortages that threaten production capacity, quality standards, and customer fulfilment.
Key contributing factors include:
Retiring skilled workers, with limited numbers of qualified candidates stepping in to replace them.
Rapid technological transformation, requiring specialised technical skills not readily available in the current talent pool.
Shifts in workforce preferences, as younger candidates gravitate toward industries perceived as more modern or flexible.
This is no longer just a recruitment issue—it is a business continuity challenge.
Leadership Gaps: A Strategic Vulnerability
While operational roles pose an immediate resourcing issue, the leadership void across the industry represents a deeper long-term risk. Companies are struggling to secure the experienced executives needed to navigate market pressures, drive transformation, and ensure sustainable growth.
Current leadership challenges include:
A thin pipeline of next-generation leaders, particularly for senior operational, commercial, and general management positions.
Limited succession planning, often leaving organisations exposed when key leaders retire or transition.
Increasing complexity, requiring leaders with expertise in digitalisation, automation, supply chain resilience, and customer-centric strategy.
Without strong leadership, even well-equipped organisations struggle to execute effectively and remain competitive.
How Forward-Thinking Organisations Are Responding
To remain competitive and resilient, leading companies in print and packaging are taking proactive steps to address both immediate and long-term talent needs. These strategies include:
1. Modernising Talent Acquisition
Organisations are enhancing their employer value proposition and leveraging specialist executive search partners to identify leaders capable of driving transformation.
2. Investing in Skills Development
Upskilling and reskilling initiatives ensure teams are equipped to adapt to new technologies and evolving operational demands.
3. Prioritising Employee Retention
Improved culture, recognition, and professional development programmes are helping companies retain critical talent in a competitive labour market.
4. Strengthening Succession Planning
Structured initiatives are being put in place to build leadership pipelines and reduce organisational risk.
Leadership: The Defining Advantage
In today’s environment, the difference between organisations that thrive and those that fall behind is clear: effective leadership. Companies that invest in strategic, forward-thinking leaders are better positioned to respond to market volatility, implement innovation, and achieve long-term success.
Given the complexity of today’s challenges, securing the right leaders is more critical—and more competitive—than ever before.
Partner with a Specialist Who Understands the Industry
At Athena Executive Search, we specialise in supporting print and packaging organisations with the leadership talent required to navigate change and accelerate growth. Our deep industry knowledge enables us to identify and secure executives who can deliver meaningful, measurable impact from day one.
If your business is facing labour or leadership challenges, now is the time to strengthen your strategy.
→ Contact Athena Executive Search to explore how we can help you build a robust, future-ready leadership team.
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 shifting from static identification to dynamic intelligence — transforming every product into a data point.
From Codes to Connectivity
The first wave of smart packaging focused on providing basic digital touchpoints — scannable QR codes offering promotions, product details, or authenticity verification. While these tools delivered value, they only scratched the surface of what connected packaging could achieve.
Smart Packaging 2.0 integrates IoT sensors, cloud data, and AI analytics to go far beyond one-way interactions. Today’s solutions can monitor freshness, temperature, location, and even usage patterns — all while feeding back insights to brands in real time.
This is no longer about linking a product to a web page. It’s about linking the product, the consumer, and the supply chain in a single intelligent network.
The Consumer Connection
Modern consumers want transparency and personalization. They expect to know where products come from, how they’re made, and whether they align with their values.
With connected packaging, brands can:
Provide instant product authentication and provenance data.
Deliver personalized digital experiences through unique identifiers.
Build sustainability transparency by showing life-cycle or recycling information.
In essence, packaging becomes the new marketing channel — one that combines digital engagement with trust and traceability.
The Supply Chain Advantage
For manufacturers and logistics providers, Smart Packaging 2.0 brings unprecedented visibility and control. With embedded sensors and digital twins, brands can:
Track goods through the entire journey — from factory to shelf to consumer.
Detect and resolve bottlenecks in real time.
Verify authenticity and reduce counterfeiting.
Measure environmental impact with data-driven accuracy.
By merging operational data with consumer insights, smart packaging bridges the gap between brand storytelling and supply chain performance.
Leadership and Talent for the Smart Future
As smart packaging moves from pilot projects to scalable solutions, companies face a new challenge: finding the right talent to lead this transformation.
From data strategists and sustainability experts to materials engineers and IoT specialists, the packaging industry needs leaders who understand both technology and purpose — innovation that not only connects but also commits to transparency and sustainability.
The Future Is Intelligent — and Human
Smart Packaging 2.0 isn’t just about technology. It’s about creating meaningful connections — between brands and consumers, and between innovation and responsibility.
At Athena Executive Search, we partner with packaging and technology leaders who are driving this shift — helping them find the visionary talent that turns smart packaging into smart business.
📩 Ready to lead in the next generation of packaging innovation? Let’s connect and explore how Athena can help you build the leadership team to make it happen. 👉 www.athena-executive.com
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 modern industries demand.
The Rise of Bio-Based Innovation
Bio-based materials, derived from renewable biological resources such as plants, algae, and organic waste, are transforming supply chains across multiple sectors. Their appeal lies in their potential to lower carbon emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and create circular production models that support long-term environmental stewardship.
Industries including automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and fashion are already integrating bio-based alternatives into product design. From plant-based polymers and resins to biodegradable textiles, the shift signals a broader movement toward responsible innovation.
Performance: The Persistent Challenge
However, the transition to bio-based materials is not without its challenges. Despite impressive advancements, questions remain regarding durability, scalability, and consistency.
In certain applications, bio-based substitutes have yet to fully match the strength, flexibility, or longevity of traditional materials. This performance gap underscores a critical tension: companies must reconcile sustainability ambitions with the operational realities of production and market expectations.
Leadership at the Intersection of Innovation and Responsibility
Addressing this balance requires more than technological progress — it demands strategic leadership. Executives must navigate a complex landscape of evolving regulations, volatile raw material markets, and rapidly advancing scientific developments.
The most effective leaders are those who can embed sustainability into corporate DNA while maintaining a clear focus on performance excellence. They invest in R&D, foster cross-sector collaborations, and champion a long-term vision that unites innovation, profitability, and environmental accountability.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Transformation
The future of materials sourcing will not be defined by a binary choice between performance and sustainability. Instead, success will depend on integrating both into cohesive, forward-looking strategies. Organizations that prioritize sustainable innovation — supported by capable, visionary leadership — will be best positioned to achieve resilience, competitive advantage, and lasting impact.
Partnering for Sustainable Leadership
At Athena Executive Search, we specialize in identifying and connecting organizations with transformational leaders who can navigate this critical intersection of performance and sustainability. Our expertise lies in helping businesses build executive teams that deliver innovation while advancing meaningful environmental progress.
If your organization is seeking leaders who can drive sustainable growth and strategic excellence, Athena Executive Search is ready to partner with you.
📩 Contact us today at Email: enquiries@athena-executive.com to discuss how we can help you shape the leadership needed for a sustainable future.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-11-11 17:49:062025-11-11 17:49:06The Bio-Based Balancing Act: Performance vs. Sustainability in Materials Sourcing
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 reframing the narrative. Rather than viewing the plastic tax as a burden, they see it as an opportunity—a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and leadership transformation.
Turning Regulation into Reinvention
Few sectors are as directly affected by the plastic tax as packaging and print. Every component, from substrates and coatings to inks and adhesives, is being re-examined through a sustainability lens. This pressure is prompting rapid innovation across the supply chain.
Leaders are rethinking material sourcing, investing in bio-based and compostable alternatives, and working with clients to design for recyclability. Meanwhile, print and packaging manufacturers are developing smarter, leaner processes to reduce waste and energy use.
What’s emerging is a more agile, purpose-driven industry—one that doesn’t simply comply with regulation, but uses it to differentiate, add value, and future-proof its operations.
Innovation as a Competitive Edge
Companies embracing change are already seeing tangible benefits. R&D investments in sustainable packaging technologies are unlocking new revenue streams. Brands that can demonstrate measurable reductions in plastic use are winning tenders, securing partnerships, and earning consumer trust.
More than ever, innovation is becoming a strategic advantage, not just a sustainability talking point. The packaging and print companies that thrive will be those that integrate environmental responsibility into every layer of their business—from design and production to talent and culture.
Leadership at the Core of Transformation
The plastic tax has also underscored a growing leadership challenge: finding the right people to drive meaningful change. The industry needs leaders who understand both the technical complexity of packaging and the strategic imperatives of sustainability—visionaries who can align innovation, regulation, and profitability.
At a time when the sector is being reshaped by environmental legislation, leadership agility and purpose-led strategy are more valuable than ever.
Conclusion: From Compliance to Competitive Advantage
For the packaging and print industry, the plastic tax is not merely a compliance cost—it’s a defining moment. Those who see it as a catalyst for innovation will be the ones who lead the market toward a more sustainable, resilient future.
This is more than a regulatory shift; it’s a call to reimagine how packaging adds value—to customers, to brands, and to the planet.
Call to Action
At Athena Executive Search, we partner with the packaging and print industry to identify and attract the transformational leaders who turn sustainability challenges into growth opportunities.
If you’re ready to build a leadership team that can navigate the future of sustainable packaging, circular design, and responsible manufacturing, connect with us today. Let’s shape the future—one innovation at a time.
https://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpg00Managerhttps://www.athena-executive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Athena-logo_270-1.jpgManager2025-11-06 13:01:072025-11-06 13:01:07The Plastic Tax: A Cost of Doing Business or a Catalyst for Genuine Innovation in Packaging and Print?
