With just over two weeks to go until entry deadline for the inaugural PKN Women in Packaging Awards programme, this year's judges – industry leaders and experts in their respective fields – are sharpening their pencils in anticipation of the challenging task of evaluating the depth of talent across women in our industry.
In its first year, the PKN Women in Packaging Awards programme has kicked off with strong industry support, including from the hand-picked panel of judges who have volunteered their time to commit to this important task.
“The panel selected for our inaugural round of the awards represents a talented pool of industry leaders, changemakers, and experts in their respective fields. But above all, these are women who champion other women, who are fully behind what this programme stands for,” said PKN publisher Lindy Hughson.
This year's judges are:
Nerida Kelton, executive director, Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP)
Sandra Dal Maso, head of packaging transformation, Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO)
Rosanne Jessop, MD of Pilz Australia & New Zealand, and board director of Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association (APPMA)
Louise Weine, CEO, National Association of Women in Operations (NAWO)
Bronwyn Voyce, founder & CEO, Civic Futures Lab
Nikki Moeschinger, managing director, Brand Opus
Margaret Stuart, director – Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Nestle Oceania
Dr Nicole Garofano, head of Circular Economy development at Planet Ark Environmental Group
“Each of these accomplished women are working to drive positive change in our industry, and despite their demanding roles, had no hesitation in stepping up to this challenge, the outcome of which will see us formally recognise and celebrate the achievements of women working across the Australian and New Zealand packaging industry,” Hughson said.
“Like me, these judges believe that by shining a light on the achievements of women leaders, this will inspire, encourage and empower more women to step up and take their seat at the table.
“We strongly encourage all companies and organisations in the packaging value chain to nominate eligible candidates – there are six categories so plenty of opportunity for your stars to shine.”
“Everyone is talking about fixing the gender gap and promoting diversity and inclusion – recognising the achievements of women in packaging is an important part of addressing this issue,” Hughson said.
The categories open for nomination are: Innovation Champion Award; Sustainability Leader Award; Packaging Technologist of the Year Award; Design and Branding Visionary Award; Manufacturing Leader Award; and Communications Excellence Award. You can find out more about the awards criteria and scoring rubric here.
Hughson said the PKN team has been thrilled by the positive response the program has had from industry ahead of the launch, with a solid list of high calibre sponsors, and support from association partner AIP. Amcor is the program's Platinum sponsor, with Ball & Doggett and Currie Group taking Gold. Silver sponsors are Avery Dennison, Close the Loop Group, Impact International, Planet Protector Group and Tetra Pak, while Bronze sponsors are Delta Global, FujiFilm Positiv and Trimatt.
Entries close on 24 April. The finalists will be announced in May, with finalists and winners recognised at the PKN Women in Packaging Awards luncheon event taking place on Friday 21 June at The Gallery - Beta in Sydney. Book your tickets here.
