What's Happening?
The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) is actively seeking an Executive Director for its Packaging sector. This role is critical for leading the development and implementation of strategic priorities, goals, policies, programs, and committees
that support the AF&PA's packaging sector. The Executive Director will focus on issue advocacy related to paper-based packaging and cultivate relationships with industry business leaders and other relevant industry associations. Key responsibilities include maintaining up-to-date information on issues impacting the Containerboard, Kraft, and Paperboard sectors, guiding these sectors in identifying and prioritizing issues, and integrating business solutions into the association's public policy and marketplace initiatives. The position also involves contributing thought leadership on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and coordinating with the Government Affairs team to advocate for member interests at federal, state, and local levels. The role requires strong leadership, interpersonal skills, and an understanding of the paper industry and marketplace dynamics.
Why It's Important?
This executive appointment is significant for the U.S. forest products industry, which employs over 925,000 people, largely in rural America, and contributes approximately 4.7% to the total U.S. manufacturing GDP. The new Executive Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the policy landscape for paper-based packaging, a vital component of the industry. Their efforts in issue advocacy and relationship building will directly influence regulations and market conditions affecting producers of containerboard, kraft paper, paperboard, bags, and foodservice packaging. By leading strategic approaches to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and coordinating with government affairs, the individual will help ensure that the industry's interests are represented in policy discussions, potentially impacting manufacturing costs, sustainability initiatives, and overall market competitiveness. The role's focus on integrating business solutions into public policy initiatives underscores the industry's commitment to economic growth and environmental stewardship.
What's Next?
The AF&PA will proceed with the hiring process to fill the Executive Director, Packaging position. Once appointed, the new director will immediately begin to engage with member companies, industry leaders, and policymakers to advance the association's agenda for the packaging sector. This will involve leading various paper-product group committees, such as the Containerboard/Kraft Sector and the Paperboard Packaging Sector, and representing AF&PA at industry conferences and with allied organizations. The director will also be responsible for preparing written communications and testimony regarding packaging issues and coordinating advocacy efforts with the Government Affairs team. Their initial focus will likely include assessing current challenges and opportunities within the packaging industry, particularly concerning regulatory changes and market trends, to develop and implement effective strategies that support the AF&PA's mission and its members' interests.
Beyond the Headlines
The appointment of a dedicated Executive Director for Packaging highlights the increasing complexity and strategic importance of the packaging sector within the broader U.S. forest products industry. This move reflects a growing need for specialized leadership to navigate evolving environmental regulations, consumer demands for sustainable packaging, and global market dynamics. The emphasis on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) indicates a proactive approach to addressing waste management and circular economy principles, which could set new standards for the industry and influence supply chains. Furthermore, the role's focus on cultivating relationships with diverse stakeholders underscores the collaborative nature required to drive policy changes and foster innovation. This strategic leadership could lead to significant advancements in sustainable packaging solutions, potentially influencing consumer choices and the environmental footprint of packaged goods across various industries in the U.S.
