Huhtamaki President and CEO Ralf K. Wunderlich has been named CEO of the Year 2026 in the Sustainable Packaging Industry by European CEO, recognising his leadership of the global packaging manufacturer and its development of packaging solutions for changing market, consumer and regulatory requirements.
Presented as part of the European CEO Awards 2026, the recognition focuses on Huhtamaki’s work in packaging innovation, materials and sustainability. It also acknowledges changes to the company’s operating model under Wunderlich, including greater accountability for teams working closer to customers.
Huhtamaki said the revised structure is intended to enable faster decision-making and execution while supporting innovation across its packaging portfolio. The company works with customers to develop packaging that addresses current and future business requirements, combining materials expertise, product development and international manufacturing capabilities.
“I am grateful for this recognition, but it really reflects the work of our teams around the world. Every day, our people help customers succeed by developing packaging solutions that combine performance, innovation and sustainability. Their expertise, commitment and accountability are what drive our progress and help our customers succeed every day,” Wunderlich said.
Huhtamaki supplies packaging intended to support the safe and convenient delivery of consumer products. The company stated that its approach brings together material knowledge, innovation and global scale to help customers respond to evolving packaging needs. The supplied announcement did not specify the award’s judging criteria, presentation date or ceremony location.