1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?
I joined the AIP because I wanted to give back and start to showcase how rewarding the packaging industry is. I believe that it is time for me to give back some of my experience to an industry which kicked off my career many years ago.
.
Being a member of the AIP also enables me to build on my networking in the industry and provide mentoring & education to those who may need some guidance.
.
I would like to help AIP Members build customer service, convert consumer preferences into solutions and drive & receive value.
.
Of course I also believe that the AIP can offer the ability to socialise and network with like-minded packaging professionals in the region.
2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?
I have been working in the beverage industry for 17 years and I also have a PhD in Biotechnology at the University Berlin in Germany – thesis in Beverage Packaging.
.
I started my career in the Research & Teaching Institute (VLB) as the Head of Engineering & Packaging co-funded by the German Brewing Association. From there I joined Coca-Cola as their Packaging Manager and took my first steps in optimising packaging: introducing PCO1881 & preform self-manufacturing to name some.
.
After relocating to Australia I spent 10 years with Coca-Cola Amatil in various Supply Chain functions. My packaging highlights were: CC&Dry on tap, Easy Crush Bottle, Aseptic fill of Barista Bros, shift from hotfill to warmfill of Powerade & self-manufacturing of preforms/ closures.
3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?
In January 2021 I am starting consulting work mainly in the packaging & beverage manufacturing industry.
My first two focus areas are in the Circular Economy Network and a 5 Year Packaging Strategy for a global manufacturer.