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Julian Freeman takes top sales role at Rigid Containers

Corrugated group Rigid Containers has hired Chesapeake's former pharma sales head as its own new head of sales.

Rigid, which is part of Belgian group VPK, has appointed Julian Freeman to the role that has been vacated by Chris Trevithick, who is retiring.

Freeman was most recently the sales director of Chesapeake’s pharmaceutical and healthcare business. However, he has a long history in corrugated prior to that role with stints at Amcor, Mondi and Boxes & Packaging.

He said: "I am excited to be coming back to corrugated, having learnt a great deal about high quality graphics from the folding carton sector."

Rigid managing director Richard Coward said: "With our on-going investments in high quality flexo converting machines, we are positioning ourselves to become a leading supplier of high quality, flexo post printed corrugated solutions for the UK market. Julian’s understanding of decorative graphics is sure to help us expand into this growing sector."

Trevithick’s retirement comes after more than ten years with Rigid Containers. He began working with the company as a consultant and became sales and marketing director following the firm’s acquisition by VPK.

Coward said: "During his tenure, the company has doubled its turnover, thanks to his hard work and foresight. Following this long and successful period with the company, Chris has decided that it is an opportune time to take early retirement.

"He will continue to serve in a consultancy capacity over the next month or so, to affect a smooth hand over to Julian. Personally, and on behalf of the owners and his colleagues at Rigid, I would like to wish Chris all the best for a happy and healthy retirement."