At PPC, we have big plans for paperboard packaging and our own association in 2021 – all of which start with announcing our newest Chair, Brian Hunt, COO of Southern Champion Tray. With 30 years in the packaging industry, we know he has the industry experience needed to help us grow and achieve more over the next two years. In case you missed his speech during the induction ceremony at our 2020 virtual Fall Meeting, we’ve recounted his plans and strategic direction below.
Paperboard: The Packaging Solution
“This could be a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity to promote paperboard as the packaging solution,” Hunt said, referring to several recent, state-wide bans on single-use plastics and expanded polystyrene. As governments and eco-conscious consumers continue to champion sustainable solutions, Hunt noted that paperboard is well-positioned as a renewable and recyclable material. To aid in this, we will promote this messaging and align with other industry organizations to educate consumers and decision-makers.
Increasing Training Opportunities
Hunt’s second priority as Chair is to work toward transforming the paperboard industry through effective training. “Almost 10,000 baby boomers retire each day, leaving potential knowledge gaps in our industry,” said Hunt. In recent years, we have proven successful in offering technical and production training, expanding financial executive development, synchronizing human resource teaching, as well as hosting numerous other educational webinars—especially during the pandemic. For Hunt, now is the best time to leverage these initiatives in a more expansive way in order to reach all PPC members and our industry at large.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity to help grow and shape PPC,” Hunt said. “Our industry association is crucial not only for sharing technical knowledge but also for networking and connecting members from different backgrounds and generations.”
Engaging Future Leaders
Engaging the younger community is Hunt’s third strategic goal. He believes our industry must become more agile and inclusive with the next generation of boxmakers. It will be crucial to bridge the gap between current and future industry leaders. Offering educational content focusing on emerging leaders as well as expanding our industry’s Student Design Challenge are ideal places to start.
“Brian is a thoughtful leader, a consummate professional, and a great colleague,” said Ben Markens, President of PPC. “He served as Vice Chair for the past two years, so he’s already made an incredible impact on our association. I trust that his leadership will take us even further during his tenure as Chair.”
Currently residing with his wife in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Brian has held multiple leadership positions within his community, including various chamber groups, charitable organizations, and professional groups. He is the Leadership Council Chair for the Tennessee National Federation of Independent Businesses and serves on the Board for the Chattanooga Area Goodwill Industries. In a business advocate position, Tennessee’s Governor has appointed Brian to the State’s Advisory Council for Worker’s Compensation. He is also a Past President of the Chattanooga Kiwanis Club and Past Vice Chair for the Chattanooga Area Red Cross.
To learn more about the Paperboard Packaging Council, our leadership, and what makes us special, visit our Who We Are page.