26 - Paul Nowak, VP of Enterprise Solutions at Quad Graphics

People of Packaging · 16 Jun 2020 · 46m

What this episode covers

Paul Nowak, VP of Enterprise Solutions at Quad Graphics, discusses his 27-year career in the packaging industry, from his early days inspecting folding carton defects to leading enterprise solutions. He shares his personal journey as an out gay man in the early 1990s, explaining how stopping self-editing and showing his authentic self led to promotions and better problem-solving through diversity of thought. Nowak highlights Quad Graphics' inclusive culture, acquired via the purchase of his previous employer, and emphasizes the importance of safety, mentorship, and community organizing skills in navigating corporate environments. He concludes by expressing a desire to magically transition the packaging industry to renewable energy to reduce capital expenditure barriers.

Mentioned

Companies
Quad Graphics, New Belgium Brewing, Home Depot, Beck Carton, Proteus Packaging
Also
Human Rights Campaign

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