Georgia-Pacific Appoints Ryan Elwart as Senior Vice President of Sales and Innovation at GP Foodservice Solutions
Georgia-Pacific Welcomes Ryan Elwart as Senior Vice President of Sales and Innovation
In recent news, Georgia-Pacific, a major player in the manufacturing and marketing of a range of products, announced the appointment of Ryan Elwart as Senior Vice President of Sales and Innovation for their GP Foodservice Solutions division. This new role is crucial as the company aims to expand its presence in the foodservice market, particularly in the sector of disposable products designed for away-from-home dining experiences.
A Shift Towards Innovation and Growth
Ryan Elwart's return to Georgia-Pacific marks a pivotal moment for the company. With a comprehensive background that includes extensive leadership experience in sales and innovation, Elwart is expected to spearhead significant transformations within GP Foodservice Solutions. His immediate focus will be on enhancing customer partnerships and fostering innovative solutions to cater to a rapidly evolving market landscape.
Chris Warburton, Chief Customer Officer for Georgia-Pacific's Consumer Products group, expressed excitement over Elwart's return, highlighting his strong commercial leadership and his profound understanding of both customers and the industry. Warburton stated, "He will play a key role in accelerating our foodservice business by strengthening customer partnerships and advancing innovative solutions to better serve a growing market."
Extensive Experience in the Industry
Before rejoining Georgia-Pacific, Ryan Elwart held the position of Group President at Mativ, where he effectively managed multiple categories and segments. His leadership there included not just driving performance but also implementing strategies designed to enhance growth opportunities on a broader scale. During his tenure, he successfully led the Sustainable Adhesive Solutions business unit, uniting teams across various functions including sales, marketing, and research and development to ensure innovative practices were widely adopted and executed effectively.
Elwart's previous experience with Georgia-Pacific dates back 16 years, where he excelled as Chief Customer Officer for the Consumer Products Group. In that capacity, he was instrumental in the integration of sales and commercial capabilities across retail and B2B sectors, overseeing areas like eCommerce and sales strategies. His career also saw him in notable leadership roles at PepsiCo and Hormel Foods, further solidifying his capabilities in customer and consumer relations.
Georgia-Pacific's Established Credibility
Based in Atlanta, Georgia-Pacific is renowned as one of the leading manufacturers and marketers of various household products. Their extensive product lineup includes well-known brands such as Angel Soft®, Brawny®, Dixie®, and Quilted Northern®. Additionally, Georgia-Pacific has made a name for itself as a key supplier of building products and an industry leader in recycling initiatives, operating over 150 facilities and employing around 30,000 individuals directly.
Elwart's appointment signals a commitment by Georgia-Pacific to push forward in the foodservice sector, not only through innovative products but also by enhancing the overall customer experience. As the company navigates the opportunities and challenges within this competitive landscape, Elwart’s leadership is poised to drive positive changes and growth.
In conclusion, Georgia-Pacific is setting the stage for an exciting era with Ryan Elwart at the helm of sales and innovation for GP Foodservice Solutions. His track record and comprehensive experience will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the foodservice market while continuing to deliver quality products and services to customers across the industry.