ACTEGA, a manufacturer of specialty coatings, inks, adhesives, sealants and compounds for the print and packaging industry, has announced two high-profile management appointments. Andrei Sotkeviciene, who was previously managing director of ACTEGA do Brasil, will assume the role of president for ACTEGA North America. His successor, Carlos Mateluna already took over the position as managing director of ACTEGA do Brasil at the beginning of March.

These appointments demonstrate ACTEGA’s commitment to providing leadership across all its regions worldwide, as well as celebrating talent and expertise fostered within the ALTANA Group.

Sotkeviciene brings a record of success to his new role of president of ACTEGA North America, succeeding Mark Westwell, who is retiring after a long career with the company. Since joining ALTANA Group in 2014, Sotkeviciene has held key roles in ACTEGA do Brasil, such as CFO, and became managing director in 2019. Under his leadership, ACTEGA’s business in Brazil has grown into one of the most successful regions within the division. Additionally, Sotkeviciene played a major role to combine the acquired businesses of Overlake and Premiata into ACTEGA do Brasil.

Sotkeviciene comments, “I am delighted to have been appointed as president of ACTEGA North America. My focus will be on fostering innovative solutions and strong partnerships with all stakeholders. With the exceptional team we have in North America, we will strive to deliver high-quality products and services with a sustainability-driven approach. I am devoted to working closely with my colleagues to accomplish our objectives and maintain our position as an industry leader.”

In addition to Sotkeviciene’s appointment, Mateluna has been named managing director of ACTEGA do Brasil. Carlos Mateluna, previously managing director of ACTEGA Terra Chile, has been part of the ACTEGA world since the beginning of his professional career in 2008 and has played a key role in developing its strategic direction, as well as driving operational excellence in ACTEGA in major parts of South and Central America. Through his leadership skills and teamwork, Mateluna developed ACTEGA Terra Chile successfully to become a prominent player in the region for the graphic industry, labels and paper-based packaging.

“At ACTEGA, we highly value investing in our team and take pride in promoting from within, so we are delighted to appoint Andrei and Carlos to these important roles,” says Thorsten Kröller, president, Division ACTEGA. “With a deep understanding of our business operations in the region and comprehensive insights into the graphic art industry, Carlos is well-equipped to take over the role of managing director at ACTEGA do Brasil and grow our presence in Brazil.

“Andrei’s remarkable leadership skills have been proven during his tenure in Brazil. Despite a challenging economic environment, he has been instrumental in the success of ACTEGA in Brazil. I have no doubt that he will bring a fresh, dynamic approach into his new role and continue to drive our growth trajectory in North America,” adds Kröller.

Kröller also expressed his gratitude to Westwell, who was president of ACTEGA North America for the last nine years. Westwell implemented several successful strategies that sparked growth in all of the ACTEGA business lines in North America and also transformed the different parts of the business into one company. “I wish Mark all the best. His outstanding work at ACTEGA will not be forgotten, and his dedication to the company has left a lasting impact,” concludes Kröller.