WOMEN IN THE PET PACKAGING INDUSTRY - Part 1

CC: Which stages of your career were particularly important to your success?

The most important stage in my career was when I made the leap from my customerfacing sales role into a leadership position where I was responsible for developing the company’s social impact strategy, and later into sustainability advocacy. I have always taken responsibility for evolving my career by pursuing my passion while taking on more and new projects and responsibilities. Each of these steps expanded my perspective and taught me how to drive change, build relationships, and create impact across organizations and industries.

CC: What are you most proud of in your career?

I am most proud of building teams and programs from the ground up, while helping advance important conversations around sustainability and the circular economy. Seeing both people and initiatives thrive is incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to do both in my current role at Husky.

CC: What does sustainable packaging mean to you personally?

Sustainable packaging means creating solutions that deliver value while minimizing environmental impact. It is about designing products and systems that keep materials in use, reduce waste, and support a truly circular economy. And it is possible to achieve sustainable packaging and efficiency at the same time – we are proving it every day.

Visibility matters

CC: Do you have any ideas for attracting more women to technical careers?

Visibility matters. We need to showcase more female role models, provide mentorship opportunities, and help young women see the diverse and exciting career paths available in technical industries. This exposure needs to start early, from high school. We need to get young women and girls excited about the possibilities and impact they can make in our industry.

CC: Do you consider mentoring programs for women important? Have you benefited from them?

Absolutely. Mentorship provides guidance, confidence, and perspective. I have benefited greatly from mentors throughout my career, and their support has helped shape my leadership journey. I have also had the privilege of mentoring young women in their careers. Mentorship is hugely valuable for both the mentee and the mentor, and I’ve learned it’s especially valuable to always have mentors, no matter what stage of your career you are in.

Unique perspective - empathy - balance

CC: Are women leaders different from men leaders?

I believe effective leadership is not defined by gender. Every leader brings their own strengths, experiences, and perspectives. What’s most important in a leader is empathy and a drive to build the best team – and I have seen these qualities in both women and men. Women leaders bring a unique perspective that may make them more aware of, and empathetic to certain situations – such as balancing motherhood and a career – something that is experienced differently for men.

CC: What steps could companies take to make it easier for women to return to work after maternity leave?

First: trust. The company should trust that their returning employee is excited and committed to jumping back into work with enthusiasm. To create an environment where this is possible, it is helpful for companies to provide flexibility with scheduling and provide supportive leadership. Training employees on unconscious bias will be helpful as well, to ensure the returning parent feels accepted and supported in continuing to grow and advance her career.

CC: What changes would you like to see for the next generation of women in this industry?

I would like to see more women represented in technical and leadership roles, and for career advancement opportunities to feel accessible and attainable from the very beginning of their careers. It is up to every woman in our industry to create this community where we encourage each other and celebrate women who are progressing in their careers.

CC: What would you say if you could address a message to the entire packaging industry?

Our industry has an incredible opportunity to drive innovation and sustainability together. Progress happens fastest when we bring diverse perspectives together, create inclusive workplaces, collaborate across the value chain, and focus on practical solutions that create long-term impact.

Curiosity - network - challenges

CC: What specific advice would you give to women in the PET packaging industry?

Be curious, build your network, and do not be afraid to take on challenges outside your comfort zone. Some of the best career opportunities come from saying yes before you feel completely ready.

CC: Thank you very much for your interesting insights and perspectives, and for opening our interview series.