Sonoco Products Company is streamlining its Consumer Packaging operations by merging its Metal Packaging and Rigid Paper Containers businesses under two geographic regions: EMEA/APAC and the Americas.
“This new structure will create a simpler and more efficient operating model,” said Howard Coker, President and CEO. “It will also allow our teams to focus on customer needs rather than packaging substrates.”
As part of the reorganization, Seán Cairns has been appointed President, Consumer Packaging, EMEA/APAC, and Ernest Haynes becomes President, Consumer Packaging, Americas. Both will report directly to Coker.
Cairns previously led Sonoco’s Global Rigid Paper Containers division, while Haynes most recently headed the company’s North American Metal Packaging unit following the acquisition of Ball Metalpack in 2022.
Rodger Fuller will continue as Chief Operating Officer and support the EMEA transition after serving as interim CEO for Metal Packaging EMEA earlier this year.
The new structure, expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, aims to enhance efficiency, innovation, and regional collaboration. Sonoco’s Industrial Paper Packaging business, led by James Harrell, remains unchanged.
Founded in 1899, Sonoco operates 270 facilities in 40 countries and employs approximately 22,500 people worldwide.
