Rethinking Recruitment in Print & Packaging: Five Considerations for Today’s Market

The print and packaging industry is experiencing one of the most transformative periods in decades. Shifts in sustainability demands, digitalisation, supply chain pressures, and the need for innovative materials are reshaping what businesses require from their people.

At Athena Executive Search, we see first-hand how these changes impact recruitment. The question for clients is no longer just “Who can do this job today?” but rather “Who will help us stay relevant tomorrow?”

Here are five thought-provoking considerations for clients recruiting in today’s packaging and print market:

1. Sustainability Isn’t a Buzzword — It’s a Skillset

Legislation and consumer expectations are forcing businesses to rethink packaging materials, recyclability, and waste. Clients should consider:

• Are you seeking candidates with true sustainability expertise—from material science to regulatory knowledge?

• Do your briefs highlight your company’s commitment to ESG goals? This matters more than ever to attract purpose-driven leaders.

2. Transferable Skills Can Outperform “Industry Lifers”

While deep sector knowledge is valuable, clinging only to candidates with decades in packaging may limit innovation. Leaders from FMCG, technology, or logistics often bring fresh thinking around automation, digital workflows, or consumer engagement.
Advice: Be open to cross-industry talent who can accelerate transformation.

3. Talent Wants Purpose, Not Just a Paycheque

Today’s top performers weigh an employer’s values, culture, and flexibility as heavily as salary. In packaging especially, candidates want to know how your business is innovating against plastic reduction, carbon emissions, and circular economy goals.
Ask yourself: Does your employer brand truly reflect this, or is it hidden behind technical jargon in job descriptions?

4. Speed Matters More Than Ever

We regularly see clients lose exceptional candidates because processes drag. In a competitive talent market, clarity at the briefing stage is critical—it allows us to move quickly, engage candidates confidently, and prevent missed opportunities.

5. Leadership for Change, Not Just Continuity

The industry’s next phase demands leaders who thrive in ambiguity. Whether it’s digital print technology, smart packaging, or responding to rapidly changing legislation, adaptability and curiosity will define successful hires.
Advice: Don’t just recruit for “what has worked before.” Recruit for resilience and vision.

Final Thought

The packaging and print industry is changing faster than ever. Recruitment strategies must evolve with it. The companies winning the war for talent are those that:

• Frame compelling briefs rooted in today’s challenges.

• Embrace transferable skills that drive innovation.

• Sell their story on sustainability and culture.

• Move decisively when they meet the right candidate.

At Athena Executive Search, we believe recruitment is not about filling vacancies—it’s about future-proofing businesses. In print and packaging, the leaders you hire today will determine how you compete tomorrow.

📩 To discuss your recruitment needs, contact us at enquiries@athena-executive.com