Speakers

Get inspired by industry experts. During Empack, speakers share their knowledge and practical experience on current topics such as sustainability, regulations, technology and AI, intralogistics and smart packaging.

Meet our speakers

Stephen Tagg

Stephen Tagg 

With over 20 years of international software solution sales experience in manufacturing, I help organizations across 60+ countries transform their operations through automation and digital solutions. I hold a BEng (Hons) in Control Systems and began my career as a hands-on control systems engineer, I later transitioned into global software sales roles, I specialize in connected […]

Susanne den Otter

Susanne den Otter

Susanne den Otter is Head of Events at Empack Netherlands. She has been working in the events industry for over 19 years and also has more than 10 years’ experience in the packaging industry. She has been in overall charge of Empack Netherlands since October 2025. Together with Michael Nieuwesteeg of the NVC Packaging Centre, […]

Ton Knipscheer - Empack 2024

Ton Knipscheer

Ton has held various senior positions in the international packaging industry, including at the Weidenhammer Packaging Group, where he was responsible for Dorpak and Pringles tubes. He is a board member and Executive Director of ECPA, active in VNV, and a judge for the NL Packaging Awards.

Ulphard Thoden van Velzen bij Empack

Ulphard Thoden van Velzen

Dr Ulphard Thoden van Velzen is a senior researcher in Packaging Technology at Wageningen UR. He conducts applied and strategic research into packaging, recycling and food safety, and provides scientific evidence to support the transition to circular packaging systems.

Verpact

Verpact

Verpact makes the packaging chain circular through smart collection and recycling, including a deposit scheme. They support producers and consumers in making circular choices, encourage reuse and reduce litter. This helps conserve raw materials and minimises the environmental impact of packaging.

Verpakkingsunie

The Verpakkingsunie Nederland is a leading collaborative platform within the packaging industry. The platform brings together companies and organisations to work on innovation, sustainability and circular solutions. By sharing knowledge and encouraging collaboration, the Verpakkingsunie plays a key role in supporting the industry in developing future-proof packaging.

With a strong focus on current issues such as legislation and regulations, recycling and environmentally friendly materials, the Verpakkingsunie is committed to a more sustainable packaging chain and a better world.

Vincent Breedveld  bij Empack

Vincent Breedveld

Vincent Breedveld is a Key Account Manager at Verpact. In his role, he maintains daily contact with manufacturers and importers regarding their obligations under the Packaging Recycling Scheme (UPV). As a liaison officer, he contributes to the implementation of the UPV and the supply chain coordination required for this.

William Sprangers

William Sprangers

With a background in Chemical Engineering and extensive experience in manufacturing and international business development, William is right at home at the intersection of technology and commerce. At Rodenburg Biopolymers, he builds sustainable supply chains around bio-based and biodegradable materials and translates innovation into scalable, market-driven solutions.

Wouter Smits bij Empack

Wouter Smits

After a career at DSM – with roles in China and California – Wouter joined Primus because of the opportunities offered by edible paper. Since then, many things have gone wrong, but a few have gone well. Wouter graduated from Wageningen University and doesn’t overcomplicate matters.

Zaskia Eksteen

Zaskia Eksteen

Zaskia Eksteen-Akeroyd is Manager of Scientific Operations at TRISKELION. With a PhD in Polymer Science and over 10 years’ experience in polymers and packaging materials, she combines laboratory expertise with EU packaging legislation (PPWR, SUP, EPR). She leads a multidisciplinary team and shares practical guidance.