In a strategic move, International Plastic Engineering (IPE) Oceania has appointed Warwick Armstrong as its new managing director. With its regional base in Melbourne, IPE is a renowned global supplier of Barrier shrink products catering to the food industry, renowned for its commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Armstrong, boasting two decades of industry and leadership acumen, steps into his new role with a track record of driving organisational growth on both national and global scales. His extensive experience includes a tenure as state manager for MultiVac, followed by a decade-long stint as the general manager of business development at Plantic Technologies, where he spearheaded expansion efforts across Asia and bolstered the brand’s international standing.
Speaking on his appointment, Armstrong expressed pride in joining IPE, citing its sterling reputation for excellence and dedication to cutting-edge technology. He highlighted the alignment between his professional ethos and IPE’s core values of innovation and sustainability.
Speaking to ProPack Armstrong said accepting the role of managing director at IPE was an easy decision, given the high quality and substantial presence of IPE products in the market already.
He said IPE’s innovative approach, willingness to invest in the latest technology, and dedication to sustainability made it a natural and aligned choice.
“With new additions to our product lineup, the building of our new 40,000 sqm factory the potential, for growth is truly exciting,” said Armstrong.
“It’s a fantastic time for IPE, our network of resellers, and myself, and I enthusiastically welcomed this opportunity. The overwhelming response from the market reaffirms our confidence in the path we’re on, signalling further success and the growth potential that lies ahead.”
Armstrong also emphasised the significance of collaborating closely with the company’s owners, signaling his intent to leverage this partnership for driving strategic initiatives forward.
“My affinity for family-owned businesses stems from the strong sense of ownership they cultivate among employees. The strong support from our owners serves as an asset for IPE Oceania as we grow in the region. To have direct communication with them creates swift decision-making and shorter response times, enabling us to adapt promptly to evolving circumstances when and if they arise.
“When the market discusses our products, we want them to know our brands stand for high quality and reliability – Austlon shrink bags, Austlon shrink films for thermoformers and tray sealers and Iplon casings,” Armstrong explained.
In response to Armstrong’s appointment, Michelle Fan, vice president of Sales and Marketing at IPE, conveyed excitement about the upcoming collaboration. She anticipates Armstrong’s leadership will be instrumental in introducing a new line of products tailored specifically for the Australian market, further solidifying IPE’s position as an industry leader.
