Industry Talent Spotlight: Christer Nordman

Background and Introduction

Please provide a brief introduction to yourself and your current role within the carton and cartonboard industry. How did you first become interested in this field, and what led you to your current career path?

I always knew I wanted to be an engineer, even from a very young age. My dream back then was to become a LEGO engineer! Over time, the pieces changed from plastic LEGO blocks to fibre materials, as I eventually studied paper technology at the Technical University of Helsinki. Both fields, though very different, involve building amazing things from basic components, and both capture my fascination.

 

Your Career Journey

Can you describe the key milestones and experiences that have shaped your career in this industry?

My journey has had several formative stages. At the end of my studies, I joined Tetra Pak in a marketing role, which sparked my interest in the commercial side of the industry. After graduation, I began my career in management consulting for the paper and board sector (then Pöyry Consulting, now AFRY), which gave me a comprehensive, deep dive into the industry. But after some time in consulting, I knew I wanted a more hands-on role in the commercial aspects, leading me to join Delfort Group, and then Pankaboard, both companies with unique products serving exciting niche segments.

 

Were there any particular challenges or turning points that stand out in your professional journey?

The 2008 financial crisis stands out for me, as I had just started at Pankaboard. However, it turned out well in the end. Being part of guiding and transforming companies towards speciality segments has been extremely rewarding, and seeing tangible results from my actions and decisions is always fulfilling.

 

Daily Work and Responsibilities

What does a typical day or week in your current role look like?

A large part of my time is spent managing, guiding, and coaching our sales activities while continuously developing our global sales network. Managing our sales and marketing efforts involves close interaction with our sales teams, customers, and stakeholders. As most of our sales are export-based, this naturally includes quite a bit of travel. I’m also involved in product and business development and oversee our marketing activities, working closely with select partners.

 

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you’ve been involved in recently that you find particularly exciting or innovative?

Our world is saturated with plastic, much of which is not recycled. I’m especially motivated by projects aimed at replacing plastic applications with more sustainable options. Our industry has a significant role to play in this transformation.

 

Industry Impact

How do you believe your work contributes to the sustainable and environmentally friendly aspects of cartonboard packaging?

As a professor once stated, wood is the only truly renewable raw material on our planet, and he is absolutely right. At Pankaboard, we strive to be transparent and responsible. We conduct life cycle analyses for all our products, sharing this information openly with stakeholders. We’re proud to operate locally, using clean water and benefiting from Finland’s green energy resources as we continue our environmental efforts.

 

What trends or developments in the industry are you most excited about, and how do they influence your work?

Plastic replacement is a defining mega-trend for our industry, positively impacting our business. At Pankaboard, we’ve developed several solutions that can replace fossil-based materials across various applications. Just like rigid plastic, our materials are both lightweight and high-purity—essential qualities in many packaging sectors.

 

Advice and Inspiration

What advice do you have for individuals considering a career in the carton and cartonboard industry?

Give it a try! It’s a field that is far more dynamic and technically challenging than many might imagine. This is an industry that will have a major, positive impact on sustainability, and we have a powerful story to tell. But we need people to listen.

 

Are there any personal or professional accomplishments that you are especially proud of and would like to share?

Definitely! Take a look at what we’re doing at Pankaboard, and you’ll see why I’m so proud of it. Being part of the team that has shaped Pankaboard’s journey and continues to push its success forward is a truly rewarding experience.

 

What is the one reason why you are proud to work in the carton and cartonboard industry?

We’re providing solutions that make the world a better place. But as always, it’s essential to share our story and ensure that people understand the significance of what we do