Anthony Rossi, Ball & Doggett sales executive for labels & packaging, and a recipient of the 2023 ProPrint Supplier 50, shares his journey from sales cadet to leading the industry’s next generation.
Can you share some more background about your family’s connection to the industry – were you always going to follow in their footsteps?
When I first started working at Ball & Doggett, my dad Mario was working as the senior account manager in Adelaide, while my sister began her career as the business development executive.
It was my dad who first spoke to me about the part time position that was available in the warehouse in the converting department. At that point, I was still at school and uncertain about what I wanted to do as a career.
Once I commenced the position in the warehouse, it was a conversation with my former manager, Michael Patterson, now the sales director of South Australia-based Multi-Colour Corporation, that opened my eyes to the career and growth opportunities available at Ball & Doggett. It was also really inspiring to see how dedicated, professional, and enthusiastic my dad was in his job in my childhood days.
This whole concept really excited me, and my initial inclination was to undergo an administration related role, as I felt this was right in my comfort zone, which led me to a full-time position as sales cadet.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?
The most rewarding part of my career, aside from the privilege of starting my career alongside family members, particularly with my sister, Marisa Smyrneos, who continues to play an integral role in the South Australian branch, has been the opportunities and support offered to me by Ball & Doggett.
The company’s commitment to investing in staff development, personal growth and self-discovery has steered me onto the pathway that I always aspired for. It has undoubtedly, paved the way to grow but also enabled me to thrive in my current role as a sales executive for labels & packaging.
The other aspect is the experience of collaborating with some exceptional individuals and mentors – past and present of Ball & Doggett – who have left some significant impact into my professional career.
Influential figures such as Jason Brown, Brad Partington, Daniel Jones, Michael Byrne, and Jai Simpar have significantly contributed to my personal and professional development, shaping me into a more goal driven individual.
While Ball & Doggett proudly holds the status as the largest distributor of printable materials and press consumables, what truly sets it apart, in my opinion, is the people
Can you share some more insights into your work during the pandemic? How do you remember this period of your career?
The era of Covid-19 stands out as one of the most mentally challenging, as well as one of the most transformative periods of my professional journey.
Having relocated from Adelaide to Melbourne, away from my own comforts, friends, and family, I found myself struggling, however, it was the support of my colleagues that became a crucial lifeline during this time. The surge in demand for labels & packaging consumables, in conjunction to the heightened demand for home consumption and pharmaceutical needs, added some assurance during this global chaos. Knowing how unpredictable life was back then, it was just good knowing that the labels & packaging industry still thrived and most importantly provided me with a sense of stability and purpose.
Where do you see the future of sustainability in the labels category? Why do you think premium labels seeing a resurgence in the category?
The future of sustainability in the labels category is very exciting and being able to promote our products in Victoria adds to that enthusiasm. Ball & Doggett’s collaboration with exceptional supply partners such as Wausau, Yenom and Adestor lays a solid foundation to meet the dynamic demands of our evolving world.
Among our eco-friendly label offerings, the Bright White Felt range is something special. Bright White Felt is made of 30 per cent post-consumer waste and is FSC certified, this high-white, textured label, with wet strength properties is a versatile choice across many applications.
From dominating the wine and beverage label market to making waves in other boutique labels such as candles and perfumes and even finding a niche in cheese labels, our Bright White Felt range continually evolves to meet the needs of this everchanging market.
What is the best part of working at Ball & Doggett?
I think the best part of working for Ball & Doggett is the personal journey that came along with it. From the hesitant 17-yearold in the comforts of Adelaide, I have evolved into an individual who now confidently trusts their own instincts and decisions. The impactful journey owes much to the incredible individuals who have played a significant role, none more so than Leigh Hooper, the GM for labels & packaging and my boss, Chris Jackson.
Their belief in my potential has been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today. Acknowledging the role my dad played in my career, the next chapter for me involves transitioning into a leadership role to mentor the next generation. I am excited to pay forward the empowerment and guidance I received, and this aspiration came from how impactful Ball & Doggett has had on my own growth. I am so proud to have reached 10-year milestone with Ball & Doggett. I take immense pride in the relationships I have been able to build with both my colleagues and clients and I am excited for the challenges ahead.
This article was first published in ProPack magazine
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