May 22, 2026
Kate Kelly brings fresh perspective and energy to VPK's commercial team in Ireland. As Sales Manager, she is focused on building strong relationships across the market, understanding customer needs, and connecting VPK's capabilities to real-world applications.
I've been with VPK for a few months now, and I'm new to the packaging industry, having come from chemical manufacturing, which is quite different.
I was drawn to VPK because it stood out as a company with a strong sustainability story. For me, working for a business that puts sustainability and circularity at its core is important. We are all responsible for the future of our planet, and ethical, sustainable manufacturing plays a key role in that.
VPK is also a family-owned business, and that people-centred culture is something you can feel throughout the organisation. My role as Sales Manager for Ireland is focused on understanding the market, building strong relationships with key customers, and identifying opportunities where we can add value.
The people are by far the most important part. One of the most enjoyable aspects of my role so far has been getting to know colleagues across the business, from design through to the factory floor. Sales doesn't operate in isolation and having that connection across teams is essential.
The more I understand how everything works together, the better I can support our customers. Meeting customers and seeing where our packaging ends up is also a highlight. It brings everything to life. Walking into a supermarket and recognising the work we've been part of is incredibly rewarding, even if it does make my family think I'm a bit obsessed.
No two days are the same, which is something I really enjoy.
I'm naturally someone who likes solving problems and finding solutions for customers. Even when challenges arise, there's a real sense of satisfaction in working through them and delivering a positive outcome.
A lot of what I enjoy also comes back to people. There's a strong team culture and seeing colleagues succeed is just as rewarding as achieving your own goals. Everyone is working towards the same outcome, and that shared effort makes a big difference.
There isn't really a typical day, which is part of what makes the role so engaging. One day I might be meeting customers, the next I could be collecting samples, working with the internal team, liaising with the projects team, or exploring new opportunities in the market.
The first few months have been very much about learning. As someone new to both the company and the industry, every day brings new information, new challenges, and new conversations. It's a continuous process of building knowledge and understanding how everything fits together.
One of the things I enjoy most about sales is the reset. Even if a day doesn't go to plan, the next morning is a fresh start.
How do you spot a triathlete at a party? They'll tell you. I bore people with my love of this sport - so beware if you get me on the topic!
I've been involved in triathlons, marathons, and multisport events for many years, and it's something I'm very passionate abut. It's also given me the chance to travel and be part of a great community through my triathlon club.
Outside of that, I enjoy spending time at home with my family. My children are grown up now, but I'm still very much a mum. I also enjoy looking after my home, I'm quite handy with wallpapering, and I've recently discovered a love of gardening, although I'm still working on keeping the plants alive.
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