ANA ESPINOSA

Packaging Sustainability Manager

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. My thirst for knowledge and desire to create a sustainable future led me to pursue a master’s degree in sustainability management at Columbia University. It was during this transformative period that I had the privilege of working with an extraordinary organization called “Sure We Can,” which forever changed the course of my life. There, I gained invaluable insights into the packaging supply chain, particularly the remarkable individuals working tirelessly at recycling facilities.

As my journey progressed, I found myself championing reusable initiatives for various consumer packaged goods companies. It was then that I truly understood the pivotal role of packaging design as a catalyst for sustainability.

What has been the most important skill you’ve developed as you advanced your career?

Mastering the ability to cultivate authentic connections has unlocked a myriad of opportunities for me. It has allowed me to tap into a wealth of invaluable resources, providing me with access to new avenues for growth and development. Moreover, it has served as a beacon of support and guidance during pivotal moments in my professional journey.

In this pursuit, I have come to appreciate the power of active listening, empathy, and a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of others. This has proven especially instrumental when implementing and managing change — an ever-present factor in the realms of sustainability and process improvement, as well as packaging innovation.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

It begins with cultivating an inclusive environment throughout the value chain, supported by mentorship and sponsorship programs, robust career development initiatives, and exible work policies that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by both women and men in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

Has there been a woman in your life who has inspired or mentored you? Who was she and what did you learn from her?

Many women have inspired me in my life, but very recently I had the opportunity to see Jane Goodall speak. Though her work has touched me in many ways during my entire life, mentoring me from afar, watching her speak live was extremely helpful in experiencing how strength, grace, and humility can change the world in a very palpable way.

Her presence and humility moved the room and left us all inspired to continue to love and take care of nature. Her commitment to bringing to light new ways of observing nature reinforced how she transformed the world of science by giving a voice to the earth and its inhabitants, continuing to inspire me to remain curious, passionate about my mission and committed to bring storytelling to the world of science.

As a result she continues to be a source of inspiration on how to advance my work in packaging sustainability and how to shape my leadership to inspire change.