Rosanne Jessop, managing director of Pilz Australia and New Zealand, has been elected vice-chair of the Australian Packaging & Processing Machinery Association (APPMA). With an international career spanning over 25 years in manufacturing, automation, and digitalisation, Jessop brings a wealth of expertise to the role.
When I sit down to interview Rosanne Jessop, it’s shortly after her appointment as vice-chair in early December. I’ve known Rosanne for several years now and witnessed how well she operates in a male-dominated industry, her success largely driven by her collaborative leadership style. So, it comes as no surprise when I ask her how she plans to build on APPMA’s vision and objectives, that she emphasises a team-driven approach, ensuring continuity in APPMA’s efforts under the leadership of CEO Michael Moran and chairman Rob Marguccio.
As vice-chair, Jessop will step into a more prominent role during industry engagements and member interactions, further strengthening APPMA's collaborative governance model.
“I’m here to support the team, and I see my role as extending APPMA’s reach and impact rather than changing the core direction,” Jessop said.
Championing sustainable manufacturing
Jessop sees APPMA as a potentially pivotal player in driving sustainable manufacturing across Oceania. By collaborating with other industry associations like the Southeast Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA), Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), and End Food Waste Australia, APPMA can amplify its voice at both local and federal government levels. She highlights APPMA's role in connecting members with government representatives to address manufacturing challenges and opportunities.
One pressing issue Jessop identified that impacts APPMA members and the wider processing and packaging industry is the skills shortage in manufacturing. She has used her voice on this subject at various forums with government representatives where she has represented APPMA.
“We need to shift our culture to see talent development as an industry responsibility, supported by government incentives. Programs like apprenticeships tailored to manufacturing are essential to building a pipeline of skilled workers,” she said.
Advancing Industry 4.0
With her background in digitalisation and AI, Jessop aims to help APPMA members navigate the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. She cites initiatives like APPEX and APPMA’s strategic partnership with Hannover Fairs Australia as critical platforms for showcasing smart technologies and fostering education.
“Industry transformation requires both awareness and hands-on demonstrations,” she noted. APPMA and Jessop’s involvement in Industrial Transformation Australia in Sydney in 2025, with the staging of the Packaging and Processing Pavilion, will assist in bringing cutting-edge topics and trends to APPMA members, helping them stay ahead in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Driving diversity and inclusion
As APPMA’s first female vice-chair, Jessop is a trailblazer for gender diversity in the sector. Under her leadership at Pilz, gender equality has improved significantly, with women taking on roles as machine safety consultants and sales engineers. Jessop plans to extend this commitment to her work at APPMA.
“The entire APPMA team champions diversity and inclusion,” she said, highlighting the success of initiatives like the Women in Packaging and Processing event at APPEX. “It’s about building an army — no one organisation can do it alone, but together, we can make a meaningful impact.”
Jessop was also on the judging panel of the inaugural PKN Women in Packaging Awards this year, and has volunteered her time again for the 2025 program.
Bridging global and local opportunities
Jessop’s global experience positions her to help APPMA members leverage international opportunities while addressing local needs.
“APPMA has been proactive in taking members to global events like Interpack, ensuring they stay connected to international trends,” she explained. Collaborations with industry media, including PKN Packaging News, further enhance APPMA’s ability to deliver relevant content to its members from these important international expos and forums.
By balancing global insights with local realities, Jessop, along with the APPMA team, aims to support both large and small member companies in adapting to the evolving packaging and processing landscape.
Looking ahead
As APPMA’s new vice-chair, Jessop is poised to drive innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity within the packaging and processing machinery industry. Her strategic vision and collaborative approach ensure that APPMA will continue to support its members in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in a dynamic and competitive market.
