In the ever-evolving world of packaging, the cartonboard and carton industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the way products are presented and perceived. It is a dynamic field where innovation meets sustainability, and talented individuals are making a significant impact.  We are proud to present all our interviews that celebrate the talented people who shape innovation and sustainability in packaging, colleagues who live sustainability and who make this workspace fun and exciting.

Click on the images to read the full interviews.

In the first interview we met with Gunilla Nykopp, Customer Experience Manager at Metsä Group.  Gunilla is a seasoned professional serving as the Customer Experience Manager at Metsa Group, a proud member of Pro Carton.  Gunilla’s journey in the packaging industry is inspiring and also exemplifies the diverse and rewarding opportunities available in our industry.

Gunilla Nykopp, Customer Experience Manager at Metsa Board talks about her Career in the Cartonboard and Folding Carton Industry

Next, we explored the inspiring career of Elisabeth Salajka, a dedicated professional in the carton and cartonboard industry. Currently serving as the central contact point for all Energy Management-related matters at MM Board & Paper, Elisabeth shares her experiences and insights into a field where energy efficiency, sustainability, and innovation are at the forefront.

Meet Leonie Vetter, a driving force in this realm, serving as the torchbearer for sustainability at Faller Packaging. Leonie’s journey in the packaging industry is not just inspiring; it’s a testament to the richness of opportunities that unfold within our ever-evolving industry.

Leonie Vetter, Team Leader, Pre-packaging services at Faller Packaging, talks about her Career in the Cartonboard and Folding Carton Industry
Thomas Braun, Head of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) at VG Nicolaus, talks about his Career in the Cartonboard and Folding Carton Industry

Thomas Braun, a passionate packaging specialist with over three decades of experience, is the Head of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) at VG Nicolaus in Kempten, Germany.  VG Nicolaus is member of the Van Genechten Packaging Group, a leading offset printed folding carton manufacturer with headquarters in Belgium.  In this Q&A, Thomas shares his insights into his career journey, the exciting developments shaping the carton and cartonboard industry, and the rewarding aspects of working in this dynamic field.

For the 5th in our series to showcase the dynamic realm of the carton and cartonboard packaging industry, meet Helena Moring-Vepsalainen, Product Safety Manager at Metsä Board in Espoo, Finland. Coming from an environmental background, Helena speaks about her shift into product safety and how people entering the industry can navigate changing tides within their careers. An inspiring story of change and resilience throughout the years!

Helena Moring-Vepslainen, Product Safety Manager at Metsä Board

In this 6th segment of Pro Carton’s job profile series, we turn our attention to Albert Miralles, the Technical Project Manager from Spain representing RDM Group (RDM) – a proud member of Pro Carton. With a background in civil engineering and a passion for driving impactful projects, Albert shares his insights into his role as a pivotal figure in RDM’s mills, his journey through the cartonboard industry, and his dedication to sustainability and innovation.

In this 7th segment of Pro Carton’s job profile series, we make our way to Slovenia to meet Manca Rozman, Team leader in Customer Service Southeast at MM Board & Paper, a proud member of Pro Carton. From her early days assisting in the HR department during summer breaks to now leading a dynamic customer service team, Manca Rozman shares her vibrant journey. In this Q&A, she discusses her daily responsibilities, the importance of customer relations, as well as her unwavering passion for innovation and sustainability within the cartonboard industry.

In this segment of Pro Carton’s job profile series, we turn your attention to Pieter Verdam, Mill Service Manager at FOLBB Group, mill Eerbeek – a proud member of Pro Carton. With a rich background influenced by family ties to the papermaking and packaging industry, Pieter shares his journey, the challenges he has overcome, and his dedication to sustainability and innovation within the cartonboard industry. Pieter’s story is an inspiring example of how passion and perseverance can drive success and make a significant impact in our field.

In this edition of the industry spotlight series, we feature Antonio Ristevski, an Extrusion Operator in Lund, Sweden, originally from Macedonia. Antonio shares his inspiring journey at Graphic Packaging International (GPI), from his first job in Sweden to his current role as an extrusion operator, and how his passion for learning and technical expertise have helped him thrive in his career. With a strong focus on continuous development, teamwork, and safety, Antonio exemplifies the dedication and adaptability that drives success in the cartonboard industry.

In this edition of Pro Carton’s job profile series, we explore the cartonboard industry through the experience of Iwona Zuk-Larsen, Process Manager in Customer Service at Metsä Board. With over a decade of experience at Metsä Group, Iwona shares her journey from a finance background to her current role, her passion for sustainable packaging, and her commitment to excellent customer service.

In this edition of our Industry Spotlight series, we’re excited to feature Christer Nordman, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Pankaboard. Christer’s journey in the carton and cartonboard industry began with a childhood fascination for engineering, eventually leading him to study paper technology and pursue a dynamic career path that bridges both technical expertise and commercial acumen.

In this edition of Pro Carton’s job profile series, we explore the cartonboard industry through the experience of Sven Stenz, Quality Manager, WEIG Group. With a rich career spanning technical roles, leadership responsibilities, and international collaboration, Sven’s story highlights the transformative power of curiosity, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence.

Aleksandra Lipińska, Sales Director at FOLBB, has dedicated over two decades to the packaging industry, working across multiple sectors and European markets. From flexible packaging to cartonboard, her career has been shaped by a commitment to sustainable innovation and delivering solutions that reduce environmental impact.

With over 16 years in the paper and cardboard industry, Till Kröter has built a career that bridges both the technical and strategic aspects of project management. As Project Manager and Deputy Head of Project Planning at WEIG Group, he plays a crucial role in overseeing plant developments, ensuring efficiency, and driving sustainability initiatives. In this industry spotlight, Till shares insights into his career journey, the challenges and innovations shaping his work, and the impact of sustainable project planning in the carton and cardboard sector.

With a deep-rooted passion for print and packaging, Marcus Spanier has built an impressive career in the cartonboard industry. Now working in Technical Customer Services and Technical Product Services at MM Board & Paper, Marcus’ main role is to provide customers with technical expertise and converting support. His journey, which has taken him from hands-on printing to leadership roles and international projects, reflects his dedication to innovation and continuous learning. In this Industry Spotlight, Marcus shares insights into his career path, the evolving landscape of cartonboard packaging, and the rewarding challenges of working in a dynamic and environmentally conscious industry.

With a passion for precision and a dedication to mentoring the next generation, Michelle Brosch is making her mark in the packaging industry. Starting as an apprentice at Schwarzach Packaging in 2018, she has quickly risen through the ranks to become both a machine operator and a trainer for future packaging technicians. Her journey highlights the growing role of women in technical professions and the importance of strong training programs in shaping the industry’s future.

With a passion for leadership, innovation, and sustainability, Kobe Goorts has spent the last 16 years building a dynamic and rewarding career in the paper and paperboard industry. Currently serving as Manager Technology and Development at Sappi’s Maastricht Mill, Kobe brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic insight to his work. In this edition of the Industry Spotlight, he shares his journey, the exciting developments shaping the sector, and why he sees a bright future in cartonboard packaging.

With over two decades of experience in the paper and board industry, Hans-Peter Kollmannsberger brings a wealth of knowledge, insight, and enthusiasm to his role as Sales Manager at Metsä Board. From his beginnings in customer service to a dynamic sales role working with international teams and brand owners, Hans-Peter has witnessed – and embraced – the transformation of the industry into a modern, innovative, and sustainability-driven space. In this spotlight, he reflects on his career path, the evolution of cartonboard, and why he believes the best is still to come.

Eugenio Ciucani, Energy Engineer at Holmen Board and Paper Workington in the United Kingdom and is dedicated to playing a vital role in optimising energy usage and promoting sustainability within the cartonboard manufacturing process. His journey into this field was sparked by a unique connection to the history of papermaking and has since evolved through diverse experiences within the Holmen Group.

Meet Dino Vettorel, who has dedicated over three decades to RDM Group’s Santa Giustina paper mill, where he currently serves as the Environmental & Loss Prevention Manager. In this crucial role, Dino ensures environmental regulatory compliance, drives continuous environmental impact improvement, and oversees vital certifications within the cartonboard industry.

Sigrid Gerold at MM Group is the company’s Head of Group Product Safety and Quality working in the crucial area of regulatory compliance and product. Her journey into this field began with a deep dive into the complex world of regulatory requirements for food contact materials, leading her to become a highly specialised expert in an industry where sustainability and safety now dominate every decision.

Tessa Hultholm at Metsä Board is a Product Manager based at the Simpele mill in South Karelia, Finland, specialising in folding boxboard (FBB) products. She is at the forefront of blending product quality with sustainability and technological innovation and her journey into this field was a deliberate move to gain a broader perspective on the forest industry’s value chain. Read her full career journey and insights by clicking on her image on the left.

Ragna Orbe works as a Laboratory Assistant at Holmen’s paper mill in Hallstavik, Sweden – a site known for producing high-quality book and magazine paper. Her work ensures consistent quality and environmental compliance across the mill’s full production chain. With a passion for continuous learning and problem-solving, Ragna has become a key contributor to both product excellence and sustainability. Read about her career path and daily impact below.

Simon Weisskopf is the Country Manager for Switzerland and Austria at Sappi, overseeing the company’s graphic papers, packaging grades, and parts of the speciality paper portfolio. With over 20 years’ experience across a range of roles within Sappi’s sales organisation, he brings deep market knowledge and a strong focus on customer relationships. Passionate about collaboration, problem-solving, and supporting sustainable solutions, Simon plays a key role in driving commercial success while helping the company deliver innovative and responsible paper products.