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Latest news from Packaging Innovations & Empack
Meet the Speakers 2024 | Five minutes with: Nicola Jones, Manager for Steel Packaging Recycling, Tata Steel UK
Packaging Innovations & Empack recently had the privilege of interviewing Nicola Jones, Manager for Steel Packaging Recycling at Tata Steel UK. Dive into the full interview to discover insights about Nicola, her pet peeves, perspectives on challenges facing innovators, and more!
Tell us about yourself!
I’ve worked within the steel industry for over twenty years, starting as business apprentice for then, British Steel Tinplate. Over the years, my remit at Tata Steel UK has grown to encompass steel packaging’s circular manufacturing, recycling and packaging regulations.
I’m a passionate netball & cricket fan and when I am not enjoying weekends away, you can find me in the garden!
What do you think is the biggest challenge for innovators right now?
Rightly there is always a push to look for new technologies and designs which improve the sustainability of all our packaging formats – whether that’s lightweighting or using more renewable energy in the manufacturing process.
But I do think it is important that today’s innovators are reminded of the materials available to them which are already fully-optimised for a circular economy, like steel! As a permanently available material, steel is an endlessly recyclable packaging format.
What is your pet peeve as a consumer?
As a consumer, I dislike complicated logos on packs, suggesting some things can be recycled but only if you take it back to the supermarket or send it off to a special service. We need one clear recycling system, household collection, that is easy to follow and maintain.
If you are a packaging professional: What is a piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to begin a career in packaging?
Opportunities come to those who seek them in real-life. Don’t hide your light under a bushel and don’t just rely on virtual networking like LinkedIn to support your career growth. Network with your industry peers, join trade groups or associations, volunteer for that committee. Put your hand up! It’s these connections that will help you realise your vocation.
Next week at Packaging Innovations & Empack, Nicola will be accompanied by four other women from the industry during one of our sessions! Be sure to join them at the Supply Chain & Manufacturing stage on Day 2, from 12:45 to 13:30, where they will be hosting a panel titled “Women in Manufacturing Initiative: The momentum is building…”
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