With a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and over 16 years of experience across Europe and Africa, Irene O. Akpeokhai combines deep technical expertise with visionary leadership in the Consumer Goods sector. As Packaging Transformation Director at GBfoods Europe—a leading multinational headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, operating in eight countries across Europe and boasting a portfolio of more than 25 local brands renowned for their broths, sauces, and ready-to-eat meals—she is driving a bold evolution of the company’s packaging portfolio, championing purpose-led design and scalable innovation at the heart of GBfoods’ sustainability and growth strategy.

A recognised expert in ESG and sustainability, Irene is known for her commitment to circular economy goals and her ability to connect sustainability with tangible business value. Her leadership extends beyond packaging systems to advocacy, she is an IFST Fellow (UK), and a passionate supporter of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. (STEM) and circular economy education.

In this Q&A, we explore Irene’s perspective on the evolving packaging landscape, how GBfoods Europe is translating circular ambitions into real outcomes, and what the future holds for the industry. 

Some of the questions draw on personal reflections and insights she’s shared through her popular monthly newsletter - Irene’s Letters - which blends professional thought leadership with a refreshingly unique personal voice.

1. Your monthly newsletter is a thoughtful blend of personal reflection and professional insight. What inspired you to start writing it?

The newsletter began as a way for me to process what I was learning in real time — both in my professional journey and in my reflections outside of work. Over time, it’s become a space for dialogue. 

I believe in the “crowdfunding of knowledge”: when we share openly, and when others respond with their own perspectives, we all walk away with sharper insights.