The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) honours Steven C. Voorhees, former CEO of WestRock, with the 2021 Robert T. Gair Award. Named after the man whose innovation gave birth to the modern folding carton, the Robert T. Gair Award is reserved for individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the paperboard packaging industry.
Voorhees’ many accomplishments centre around expanding WestRock’s capabilities, geographic presence and industry leadership with numerous acquisitions. Voorhees is known for cultivating a corporate culture that delivered immeasurable value to customers, stockholders and teammates alike.
“I congratulate Mr. Voorhees on his significant accomplishment—and it is significant. In fact, PPC has only given 19 Gair Awards during its 92-year history,” said Ben Markens, PPC president. “Only the most committed and exemplary individuals can receive the award, those who have left an indelible mark not only on the industry but on PPC as well as their own communities. Without a doubt, Mr. Voorhees fits the bill.”
“I am extremely grateful to the PPC for this exceptional recognition,” said Voorhees. “It has been a privilege to serve the paper and packaging industry, including WestRock as president and CEO. Thank you to all of the people who have supported me throughout my career and enabled this recognition, including my wife, Celia, and the incredible WestRock team members around the world who work tirelessly every day to connect people to essential, sustainable products.”
The 2021 Robert T. Gair award will be celebrated in-person during PPC’s Fall Conference, October 27-29, 2021, in Savannah, GA.
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