With an impressive background that spans over three decades in the flexible packaging industry, Axel Glade has seen the sector grow and evolve firsthand over the years. Starting as a young print operator and rising into executive leadership roles at global packaging companies, he recently joined Huhtamaki as President of the Flexible Packaging business. He is now focused on empowering his teams and creating value for Huhtamaki’s customers and consumers.
In this interview for Huhtamaki in Action, Axel tells us more about how he got his start in the flexible packaging industry, his objectives for transforming potential into opportunities, and his belief that teamwork is really at the heart of it all.
1. Axel, could you share some insights into your professional background and what brought you to Huhtamaki?
In my younger years, I worked as a print operator and then studied printing technology at the University of Wuppertal in Germany. I actually financed my studies with part-time jobs as a print and prepress operator. After completing my studies, I started working in the flexible packaging industry, and I have basically never left; it’s been over 30 years now. About 14 years ago, I started as the General Manager of a large flexible packaging plant in Germany, and I gradually assumed responsibility for several flexible packaging companies around the world. This also included several turnarounds outside of Europe. My most recent position was a role in the Group Executive Team of another large flexible packaging group.
2. You have been in your role as President of the Flexible Packaging segment for a few weeks already. What have been your primary focus areas so far?
I have spent my first few weeks at our company headquarters in Espoo, Finland. I am getting to know my colleagues, gaining a good overview of the company and our segment, and better understanding both the challenges we face as a team and the great opportunities ahead.
3. Looking forward, what are your key priorities and goals for the first year in your position?
I have already started on several topics that are at the top of my priority list. Work safety is here first as that will always be our number one priority. A strong safety culture protects our people, and it also reflects the care we have for one another. Another important focus area will be our blueloop™ innovations, which help drive circularity and value creation for our customers and consumers. And last but by no means least, I want to ensure that I take the necessary time to get to know our great people, teams, and operations across the globe.
4. In your role, how do you plan to build on Huhtamaki’s strategic priorities to drive the company’s 2030 strategy?
It will only work if we do it as a team. We need a “can-do/will-do” attitude and culture with clear responsibility and accountability. By being close to our operations and customers we can drive agility and speed of execution. I also believe that empowering our factories and adopting pragmatic approaches that everyone understands is vital to help us support one another in achieving our shared goals and strategy for 2030.
5. How would you describe your leadership style and what factors have shaped it?
I am a hands-on manager and see myself not only in the role of a challenger but rather as a sparring partner for my team. Mutual trust and open cooperation within our teams are also very important to me.
6. What’s one piece of advice or philosophy that has guided you throughout your career?
It is pretty simple, but extremely important. Treat your employees the way you would like to be treated by your boss.
7. Outside of work, what is something your CV does not reveal about you?
I love animals and nature. Our family loves our dog, Rocky, who now also lives with us in Finland. We also have two beautiful Icelandic horses that are now being cared for in Germany. In my spare time, I also play the electric guitar. Unfortunately, I don’t play it very well, but I really enjoy it.