Hailing from the Manawatu, Hugo Cox has a competitive edge and an ease for connecting with people that has certainly made him feel at home here since joining at the start of 2024.
For our new packaging consultant, entering the industry involved a steep learning curve. However, with a willingness to roll up the sleeves and get stuck in, the challenge of a new role is that much more enjoyable.
Sit down with Hugo and the first thing that is apparent is his pride in continuing to grow and evolve.
“At first I was like anyone who hasn’t had industry experience I guess,” he says. “I was probably thinking ‘how much do you need to know about packaging’, like it was a simple task – but after one day on the job that all changed.”
“A bag is not just a bag, and a sack can be far more than meets the eye,” he says. “There are so many factors to consider from construction and substrate types to graphic design, inventory management, manufacturing, shipping, filling and handling, consumer experience, and sustainability.”
Hugo’s appreciation for continuing to upskill and elevate what he can offer has certainly helped, the technical aspects of the work.
“My goal is simple… empowering companies to make good packaging decisions.”
“From helping clients meet their sustainability goals to ensuring they are making the most efficient use of their budget, there is a lot to the role that wasn’t obvious from the outset. I’m lucky to be part of a team that’s hungry, positive and keen to succeed.”
As part of this team he is always looking for ways to help clients meet these targets without causing undue disruption to their systems and product ranges.
“There are so many variables to this industry and ways to help our customers,” he says. “But, when it comes down it, my goal is simple: create raving fans of Smart Pack… which you do by empowering companies to make good packaging decisions.”
From the team:
If Hugo was an animal, he’d be a: Honey badger. He’s resilient, determined, and tackles challenges head-on!
His superpower might be: Adaptability. He can adapt to any new process or system like he’s seen it all before.
We love working with him because: He’s competitive, has heaps of energy and is always keen to help out with any tasks.