The AIP would like to take this opportunity to welcome Nancy Jackson MAIP, Designer & Sustainable Packaging Consultant, NJD Creative and Rahul Pingale MAIP, Technical Director, Wallquest, to the Institute and share a little bit about who they are and what they do in the industry. Please join with us in welcoming them to the AIP.
1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?
Nancy:
I joined the AIP to be part of a community of packaging professionals, and in the short time I have been a member I can already tell that these really are my people. There is something so valuable about being surrounded by others who understand the intricacies of our industry and the challenges we face.
The AIP also helps me broaden my technical knowledge, which is crucial for achieving more strategic design results for my clients. I recently attended mini-training courses alongside of FoodTech QLD which was a great way to gain quick knowledge from industry experts and keep up to date with developments and innovations. The packaging world is moving so fast, and staying current is a must to provide the best guidance for my clients.
Rahul:
I joined the AIP to connect with like-minded professionals, stay up to date on packaging innovations, and contribute meaningfully to the Australasian packaging industry. AIP offers valuable access to educational resources, industry training, and a collaborative platform for sharing best practices, which are essential for continuous improvement and innovation.
2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?
Nancy:
I have been in the design industry for over 15 years as a graphic designer, with product development experience before that collaborating with factories overseas to design products. That experience has given me a really broad skillset and understanding of the full lifecycle of packaging and products from concept to market.
Since 2019, I have been specialising in packaging design and sustainable design consultation, working both within consumer brand organisations and through my design studio, NJD Creative.
In total, I have over 20 years in the consumer brand world, with certifications as both a Graphic Designer and Sustainable Packaging Professional. My areas of expertise include story-led brand development, sustainable packaging strategy, circular design education and comprehensive packaging design solutions.
Rahul:
I have over 18 years of experience in the paper, printing, and packaging industry. My core expertise includes product development, sustainable substrates, functional coatings, process optimisation, and regulatory compliance for both flexible and decorative packaging formats.
3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?
Nancy:
In my current role as designer & sustainable packaging consultant at NJD Creative, I run a design consultancy that helps Australian consumer brands design and develop packaging that incorporates sustainability throughout. I do this through a process of brand & design theory, circular design thinking and by adhering to local design & regulatory standards.
I work with brands of all sizes, from startups to corporates, with a focus on consumer packaged goods. Most of my clients come to me because they are either overwhelmed by the complexities of the design process, lack knowledge of circular design strategies, or don’t have sufficient in-house design support or sustainability guidance.
What I love most about my work is that I can bridge the gap between quality design and sustainability expertise for SME brands who may not have the budget to hire a large agency. I offer a collaborative, personalised approach that leaves my clients feeling empowered to make confident design decisions for their brand.
Decisions that support their business goals and brand growth, while also supporting the current collection and processing systems rather than hindering them.
Rahul:
As the Technical Director at Wallquest Inc., I lead Product Development and Technical support for wallcovering products, focusing on water-based inks, non-woven substrates, and environmentally responsible coatings. I oversee new product development, quality improvement initiatives, and regulatory certifications (such as VOC, HPD, EPD, and NSF-342 standards). I also collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure innovation and commercial viability.