Introducing our new account manager for Germany
Hamid Derakhshan is going to be joining our team as an account manager in Germany. High time for an introduction. “I think it is a great idea that our products contribute to the sustainable packaging of produce.”
Hamid, what is your background?
“I live in Düsseldorf in Germany, and I am 41 years of age. Following a considerable number of years in the food industry, I decided to go in search of a new challenge. I started as an account manager with Smart Packaging Solutions in March. My focus is chiefly on the German market. I am also the contact for clients in Asia. In my former position, I frequented Asia and I have many contacts there.”
‘From Champions League football to a Champions League position’
“Via a mutual friend, I came into contact with Johan De Neef (managing director) and André Giët (sales director) of Smart Packaging Solutions a few years ago. We met at a Champions League game between Real Madrid and Liverpool. Some time later, a vacancy opened up for an account manager in Germany and I was asked if I knew anyone who might be interested in this position. I turned out to be the interested party. From the very first moment we spoke about the position I had a good feeling about it and now I am playing in the Champions League world of packaging.”
What is your link with packaging?
“Over the last few years, I worked for an international trading company specialised in deep-frozen food products. At Smart Packaging Solutions, we also supply the packaging for this market. It is a market that I know well: I know the customer wishes and the requirements that packaging must meet. I am also more than happy to help customers who want to pack other products like fruit and vegetables, fish, flowers or something else.”
What makes Smart Packaging Solutions so special?
“During my first weeks at Smart, I visited all three of our plants in Meer, Oudegem and Loenen. Leaving me with a good impression of the packaging we make and especially how we make it. From a personal perspective, I am thrilled that our packaging is made from recycled material and that we offer a sustainable alternative to plastic. Care of the environment is becoming increasingly important, and we all have a part to play. I think it is wonderful that, through our efforts, we contribute to the sustainable packaging of products.”
Have you noticed anything else?
“We can supply custom packaging to suit any request. I have already experienced this too. One of our customers requested a new type of packaging. In no time at all, my colleagues were able to design and manufacture packaging that met the customer’s wishes.”
“Wat struck me in my first period with Smart is the quality of service. Of course, the packaging we supply is absolutely top notch, but we also make a real difference for our customers through our service. The distribution is well-organised: we can supply quickly and are very flexible.”
How were your first months at Smart?
“From day one, I felt very welcome indeed at Smart. I would like to extend my gratitude to my colleagues for giving me such a warm reception. They have really shown me the ins and outs of the business. It has energized me to want to introduce even more customers to the packaging and service that are Smart.”
Meet up?
Call or mail to arrange an appointment, I am only too pleased to drop in.
Hamid Derakhshan
hamid.derakhshan@smartpaso.com
+49 176 600 260 78