UPM Raflatac has announced that Christian Szameit has joined its North America Sales Team as Area Sales Director for the Western United States and Western Canada. In his role Christian also serves on the company’s Americas Management Team. He joins the company from SIG Combibloc where he was the Vice President of Sales and Business Development, North America. Szameit is based in Portland, Oregon. 

He brings to the position more than 10 years of experience in the packaging industry working directly with manufacturers as well as global CPGs. He also served as a consultant to the food and beverage industry, working with large national retailers.

“It’s a great honor to join UPM Raflatac’s Americas Management Team and oversee our Sales team members in our Western Region,” Szameit says. “Our company has been very successful in this part of North America, and I look forward to expanding our footprint and enabling our customers to grow their sales with brand owners thanks to our innovative and sustainable labeling solutions as well as our excellent service and Sales team.”

“Western North America remains an important growth area for UPM Raflatac and we are proud that Christian has joined our West team further strengthening our presence in the area with his leadership and customer-centric approach,” adds Tim Kirchen, Senior Vice President, Americas, UPM Raflatac. “Christian brings to the position many years of experience in the packaging industry as well as an extensive background in food and beverage, which are two end-uses of particular focus for us.”