Can you introduce yourself, your role and experience in the packaging industry?
Hector Lapre – I’m a 28-year-old packaging engineer passionate about innovation and predictive science. I’ve worked on aerosol technologies at L’Oréal for almost 4 years, where I focused on developing sustainable innovations, based on scientific studies. Currently, I’m looking to apply my skills in predictive science to the qualification of our packaging.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the packaging industry?
Hector Lapre – After my engineering studies in Materials Science at Chimie ParisTech, I felt the need to discover more about Innovation, and wanted to develop myself towards B2C industries where I would have the opportunity to have a positive impact in people’s lives & on the sustainable challenges. I joined a MSc in Innovation & Design for 2 years, where I discovered the aspects of consumer centricity & innovation management. With this broader vision in mind, I wanted to apply my knowledge on Materials & Innovation, which directly led me towards the Packaging Industry. I’m driven by the opportunity to contribute to the sustainable challenges which are currently addressed in this industry.
What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a young leader in the packaging industry?
Hector Lapre – Clearly bridging the gap between scientific advancements and consumer needs. When working on Aerosol, it’s crucial to develop solutions that are not only innovative and sustainable but also performing in terms of user experience. In fact, aerosol products, such as Hair Sprays or Anti-perspirants, have a very specific experience well known and appreciated by consumers. Matching this performance with more sustainable solutions can sometimes be a real challenge, which I enjoyed working on using data-driven approaches.
If you could change one thing about the packaging industry, what would it be and why?
Hector Lapre – I would make our everyday job even more data driven than it is already. At L’Oréal Packaging department, we have already made during the last years an enormous leap forward in data accessibility and data visualization to monitor our KPI and drive strategic decisions. However, I think data analysis still has a lot of potential in packaging development and evaluation, and that it can help accelerate problem solving for new packaging optimization.
How do you see the role of future leaders like yourself in shaping the direction of the industry?
Hector Lapre – Being still young in this industry, I learn new things everyday about R&D challenges, and eco-design strategies. I feel our role as the next generation is to take on the already available knowledge while keeping our mind hungry for innovation. For example, by embracing new technologies offered by the on-going digital transformation, we can be the advocates of efficiency and optimization, for the benefit of consumers and for an always more sustainable industry.
What advice would you give to young professionals who are just starting their careers in packaging?
Hector Lapre – Be curious, be bold, and be persistent. The packaging industry is constantly evolving, so embrace continuous learning and never be afraid to challenge the status quo. If I had to reflect on the upcoming industry transformations, I’d advise to stay close to evolutions of AI, as it will transform our ways of working and our range of possibilities… the packaging industry will not be an exception for the AI revolution!
What does it mean to you to be selected as a Future Leaders?
Hector Lapre – It’s an incredible honor and a testament to the importance of innovation and science in the packaging industry. It motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and shaping a better future for packaging.
