The EY Podcast
EY CFO Outlook: Mergers and transformation, with Ken Bowles, Smurfit Kappa Group
Sep 20, 2023
Ken Bowles, CFO of Smurfit Kappa Group, talks about their recent merger announcement and the company's focus on sustainability. He reflects on his 30 years with the company and emphasizes the importance of people in a successful business. Topics also include learning from mistakes, leadership qualities, and the legacy of packaging in the industry.
30:33
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Quick takeaways
- The recent merger with US rival Westrock positions Smurfit Kappa as a global player in sustainable packaging, with projected revenues of $34 billion and $5.5 billion of EBITDA.
- Ken Bowles highlights the importance of people and leadership, emphasizing the need for inclusive and supportive cultures, talent development, and a sustainable and diverse workforce.
Deep dives
Smurfert Westrock merger creates the biggest packaging company
The CFO of Smurfert Kappa, Ken Bowles, discusses the recent merger with US rival Westrock, which has resulted in Smurfert Westrock becoming the largest company in their field. The merger was a four-year process and offers the opportunity for Smurfert Kappa, a small Irish company, to become a global player in sustainable packaging. The combined company is projected to have $34 billion in revenues and $5.5 billion of EBITDA.
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