Green Leadership: Why Sustainability Expertise Is the New Must-Have for Packaging and Print Executives

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The packaging and print industries are transforming. Is your leadership team ready?

As regulatory demands tighten and environmental awareness grows, sustainability is no longer a side consideration—it’s central to business success. In the packaging and print sectors, forward-thinking companies are turning to a new kind of executive: one who combines commercial leadership with a deep understanding of environmental impact.

At Athena Executive Search, we’re seeing firsthand how sustainability is reshaping the executive landscape—and why businesses can’t afford to fall behind.

Why Sustainability Can’t Wait

From single-use plastics bans to mandatory carbon reporting, regulations are changing fast. At the same time, major brands are setting ambitious sustainability goals, pushing expectations down the supply chain.

Add to that increasing consumer demand for greener products and more transparent practices, and it’s clear: the shift is not optional. Companies that can’t demonstrate environmental responsibility risk losing relevance—and market share.

What Makes a Sustainability-Focused Leader?

Traditional leadership traits—strategic thinking, commercial savvy, and operational efficiency—still matter. But in 2025 and beyond, standout executives in packaging and print will also bring:

  • Lifecycle Thinking – A holistic view of product design, sourcing, manufacturing, and end-of-life.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration – The ability to align R&D, operations, marketing, and supply chain around sustainability goals.

  • ESG Fluency – Knowledge of frameworks like Science-Based Targets, CDP, or GRI, and how to apply them in real-world decisions.

  • Innovation with Purpose – Experience driving change through sustainable materials, processes, or business models.

These leaders are not just managing sustainability—they’re embedding it into every part of the business.

Real Examples: How the Industry Is Evolving

We’re already seeing leading companies redefine C-suite roles to align with sustainability goals. For example:

A global packaging firm we partnered with recently evolved its Chief Procurement Officer role to focus on supplier decarbonization and ethical sourcing—sending a strong message to customers, investors, and employees.

Others are building ESG accountability directly into executive KPIs and integrating sustainability into corporate strategy at the board level.

How Athena Helps You Find Green Leaders

At Athena Executive Search, we specialize in identifying purpose-driven executives who align with the future of packaging and print. Our approach includes:

  • Industry Expertise – Deep knowledge of the packaging and print value chain.

  • Sustainability Focus – Access to a global network of ESG-savvy leaders, including those from adjacent sectors like materials science, cleantech, and circular economy.

  • Values-Driven Assessment – We look beyond the CV, evaluating a candidate’s vision, leadership style, and track record of meaningful impact.

We don’t just fill roles—we help future-proof your leadership team.

Conclusion: Lead the Change or Risk Falling Behind

Sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a defining challenge and opportunity for the packaging and print industries. The companies that will succeed are those led by individuals who understand that profitability and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

Are you ready to find your next sustainability-focused executive?

Let’s talk.
Athena Executive Search connects companies with leaders who drive real, responsible growth.

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