Huhtamaki, a Finnish packaging company, has appointed Ralf Wunderlich as its new president and CEO, effective 15 January 2025.
Wunderlich will succeed Charles Héaulmé, who is set to step down from his current role.
To help facilitate a seamless transition, Héaulmé will remain available to the company until July 2025.
Huhtamaki board chair Pekka Vauramo said: “I warmly thank Charles for the excellent work during his nearly six years’ term at Huhtamaki.
“Under Charles’ leadership the company has made great progress in its journey to become the first choice for sustainable packaging solutions and forming its updated 2030 growth strategy.”
Following his appointment, Wunderlich will resign from Huhtamaki’s board of directors immediately.
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By GlobalDataVauramo added: “Huhtamaki has been focusing on scaling up profitable core businesses, developing and deploying proprietary innovative sustainable packaging solutions, and driving world-class competitiveness. We wish Charles all the best in his next endeavours.
“Ralf K Wunderlich has a wealth of experience in leading international packaging businesses, outstanding operational experience and capability to bring high-performing teams together with great results.”
Wunderlich held the role of president and managing director, as well as executive director at LINPAC Group companies from 2008-9.
His career also includes various management positions at Rio Tinto Alcan from 1993 to 2007, culminating as president of Alcan Packaging Global Tobacco.
In addition to his executive roles, Wunderlich has contributed as a nonexecutive director to several listed and nonlisted companies.
He has been part of Huhtamaki’s board of directors since 2018, bringing valuable insights to the company’s strategic direction.
Wunderlich said: “I know Huhtamaki well and have always appreciated the company’s ability to innovate, develop and drive world-class commercial and operational results. I am excited to join Huhtamaki now as the president and CEO.
“I look forward to working together with [the] Huhtamaki team to create the best value to our customers and shareholders.”
Huhtamaki operates with approximately 18,000 employees in 37 countries and 103 locations worldwide.
