The flexible packaging industry is a close-knit community where companies and professionals often intersect throughout their careers. There is a palpable emphasis on relationship-building as a cornerstone of sales and marketing strategies.
Success relies not just on delivering innovative and high-quality products but also on fostering genuine relationships with customers, suppliers, and industry peers. The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) facilitates those relationships through its Emerging Leadership Council (ELC).
“Being part of the ELC is a valuable extension of my role,” says Mark Kent Anderson, Jr., executive vice president of sales and marketing at Mid South Extrusion. “Through the ELC, I’ve been able to build genuine relationships with fellow leaders, sharing advice that not only enhances my leadership skills and, therefore, how we serve our customers but also helps shape the future of flexibles.”
Besides the emphasis on relationships, it’s hard to deny that the workforce is becoming younger and more diverse, with an increasing number of women taking on prominent roles. This shift not only brings fresh perspectives and innovative approaches, which sales teams often lack, but also fosters a more inclusive and dynamic work environment, positioning the flexible packaging industry for long-term success.
“Through the ELC, I’ve been able to build genuine relationships with fellow leaders, sharing advice that not only enhances my leadership skills and, therefore, how we serve our customers but also helps shape the future of flexibles.”
Mark Kent Anderson, Jr., executive vice president of sales and marketing at Mid South Extrusion
“I’ve been fortunate to build my career at an inclusive company that values opportunity for everyone, and I’m passionate about creating that same environment for others,” says Kimberly Weiss, director of sales operations at Glenroy, Inc. “The packaging industry offers more opportunities for female sales and marketing professionals than people realize.”
Weiss says she has witnessed women excel at developing customer relationships by leveraging active listening skills, “which, in turn, sparked thoughtful questions and built genuine connections.”
“As the industry continues to grow and evolve, I expect sales professionals to grow and evolve with it,” she adds.
Another interesting aspect of the sales and marketing workforce is the frequent transition of professionals from technical to commercial roles.
Team members with technical backgrounds, including Paul Cucco, regional sales manager at Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp., equip commercial teams with the ability to address complex questions on the spot.
“My technical background and experiences have given me the tools to speak confidently to customers and get them the support they need faster,” Cucco says.
The ELC epitomizes this evolving workforce. About 46% of ELC members work in sales or marketing and represent a diverse array of value chain companies, each bringing unique backgrounds and perspectives.
Together, they’re working to push the flexible packaging industry forward and destigmatize what it looks like being a sales and marketing leader in 2025.