Austria-based packaging and recycling specialist Alpla has announced a leadership restructuring for its Western Europe (WEEU) and Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions.
From April 1, Roland Wallner will assume the role of managing director for Western Europe, while Ronald Tichelaar will take over as managing director for the Asia-Pacific region.
Currently serving as managing director for APAC, Roland Wallner brings over 27 years of international management experience across Europe, the US, the Middle East, and Asia. His tenure at Alpla spans 14 years, during which he successfully expanded the company's presence in Asia, overseeing multiple greenfield projects and introducing advanced technical services such as the STUDIOa product development centre and mould manufacturing.
Under his leadership, Alpla merged its North-East Asia and South-East Asia divisions into the unified APAC region based in Singapore.
“Roland Wallner knows Alpla, our customers’ needs, and the business,” said Alpla CEO Philipp Lehner. “With his strategic and prudent leadership style, he will strengthen our position in Western Europe and drive future growth opportunities.”
Western Europe is Alpla’s largest market, encompassing 31 base plants and 17 in-house facilities across ten countries, employing approximately 5,700 people. Wallner will initially be based at Alpla’s headquarters in Hard, Austria, and will report directly to the CEO.
Taking over from Wallner as managing director for APAC, Ronald Tichelaar has 14 years of experience in international management roles at Alpla. His previous positions include head of operations for North Asia and Plant Manager in Spain. Most recently, he served as general manager China, where he managed six plants, the technical centre, STUDIOa in Shanghai, and the company’s mould shop and Future Corner training centre.
“His commitment to continuous improvement, modernisation, and growth, as well as his deep understanding of Alpla’s business areas, make Ronald Tichelaar the ideal candidate. With this internal solution, we are ensuring a seamless transition and continuity,” Lehner commented.
The APAC region comprises 12 locations with approximately 2,650 employees across four countries. Earlier this year, Alpla expanded its operations in Thailand by opening a second plant and new regional headquarters in Chachoengsao.
Find Alpla Recycling at PRSE: stand G50.