If women exchange ideas, they can profit and with them so can the entire sector. Interpack deliberately brings international women from the sector together for the trade fair in May. Under the title “Women in Packaging”, on 8 May there will be a first time event explicitly for the women in the sector. The programme features a discussion on stage with top speakers from all over the world as well as opportunities for networking. The event is supported by the WPO – World Packaging Organization – which is contributing its worldwide network.
Like many other sectors, the packaging and processing industry has been predominantly shaped by men. Women in leading positions are especially rare. Yet, companies benefit from more diversity, new impulses and different perspectives, last but not least with regard to the increasing scarcity of trained professionals. “Women in Packaging” at interpack draws attention to barriers and focusses on the sector as an attractive place to work.
Role models and inspiration
They are internationally successful, pioneers in their areas, marketing experts and founders of companies: This event allows visitors to learn from these success stories, profit from advice and gain information about trends and developments in the sector. Sharing their experiences are Valentina Aureli, CEO of Aetna Group in Italy, Dr. Afsaneh Nabifar, Group Leader for the global market development of biopolymers at BASF, Australian Nadia Taylor, co-founder and Director tna solutions, Marjo Halonen, Vice President Communications at Metsä Board Corporation in Finland and Gabi Bauer, Head of Marketing & Communications at Uhlmann Pac-Systeme. The panel will be moderated by Nerida Kelton, Vice President Sustainability & Save Food at the World Packaging Organisation.
Attractivity and Diversity
The event also wants to make it possible for more women to join the processing and packaging sector, and to address young talent. As women are underrepresented in technical jobs as well as in leadership positions, supporting them can play an important role with regard to the scarcity of trained professionals. Support can mean measures like mentoring programmes, image campaigns for the sector, creating equal opportunities and attractive working conditions. Those items that are especially important will be the focus of the discussion on stage at interpack.
“Women in Packaging” will take place at interpack on 8 May at 12:00 h in the International Lounge on the ground floor of the trade fair skyscraper.
