Hoffmann Neopac, a provider of packaging and dispensing solutions for the global pharmaceutical, cosmetics and consumer goods industries, has appointed Manfred Zurkirch as its new CEO, effective January 1, 2025.
With his experience in executive positions in the packaging and manufacturing industries, including as CEO of Thielmann AG, Ferag AG, and PackSys Global AG, Zurkirch will lead the Hoffmann Neopac Group in replacement of Mark Aegler, who stepped down in June 2024 after 13 years as CEO.
Key achievements and responsibilities throughout Zurkirch’s career include:
- International sales: Extensive experience in driving sales growth in diverse global markets, particularly in Asia, Europe, and North America.
- Strategic planning: Developed and executed comprehensive strategic plans to position companies for long-term success.
- Mergers and acquisitions: Successfully led multiple M&A transactions, including due diligence, integration and post-merger optimization.
- Turnaround management: Demonstrated ability to effectively address operational challenges and implement successful turnaround strategies.
- Leadership development: Cultivated high-performing teams and fostered a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Zurkirch received a PhD in applied physics from ETH Zürich in 1997, a master of physics from ETH Zürich in 1994, and an MBA from the European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD) in 2004. He also completed executive leadership development programs at Stanford in 2017 and IMD in 2004.
Hoffmann Neopac is a privately owned company headquartered in Thun, Switzerland. The group produces metal and plastic packaging at six locations, including Hoffman cans in Thun and the Netherlands, and Polyfoil and plastic tubes at NEOPAC plants in Switzerland, Hungary, the United States and India. Long-standing customers include international pharmaceutical, cosmetics and consumer goods manufacturers in Europe, North America and Asia.
Peter Schildknecht, chairman of the board of directors of the Hoffmann Neopac Group since June 2024, says, “With Zurkirch, we have gained a CEO with a strong customer focus and a clear emphasis on innovation. He will help to further strengthen our position as a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Stefan Pulfer, the Group’s long-standing CFO, who is leading the company on an interim basis until the end of the year.”
