Cornelia Tietz Named New Director of EuPIA

Cornelia Tietz is the new director of the European Printing Ink Association (EuPIA) as of March 4, 2024. Tietz will take over the reins of EuPIA with the clear ambition to continue Martin Kanert’s work making sure that EuPIA is fulfilling its commitment to sustainable innovation.

Kanert was with EuPIA since 2006. He assumed responsibility as EuPIA’s first executive manager when he had to manage a crisis type situation following findings of contamination of food with an ink ingredient. Since then, EuPIA has successfully developed and established standards aimed at ensuring the safety of printed food contact materials.

Many other committees and working groups were established under Kanert’s management, most of them dealing with enhancing the safety in use of printing inks.

In December 2019, Kanert was appointed the managing director of the German Paint and Printing Ink Association VdL. After four years of dual responsibility, he decided to now focus on his role in Germany.

“I am proud to have helped EuPIA develop into what it is today,” Kanert said. “It goes without saying that this has only been possible with the substantial support and dedication of the many people engaged in EuPIA’s committees, working groups and task forces. And I am happy that with Cornelia, the EuPIA Council has found such an experienced and knowledgeable successor.”

Tietz has been the secretary general of ESIG, the European Solvents Industry Group and its sector association for the last seven years. She brings with her nearly 20 years of experience in Brussels with different positions in Cefic and ReachCentrum.

“It’s a great honor and for sure a challenge to take over from Martin Kanert, who has been the driving force of EuPIA for so many, many years,” said Tietz. “I am truly looking forward to embark on this new and exciting journey together with the EuPIA members and the CEPE team.”

EuPIA chairman Mehran Yazdani of Sun Chemical points out the associations’ appreciation.

“In the current revision of so many EU regulations relevant to our industry, a dynamic and well-structured trade association is of benefit to its members, and we will continue to contribute under the lead of the director to give an answer to societal questions,” Yazdani said. “I would personally like to thank Martin for two decades of leadership and at the same
time extend a warm welcome to Cornelia who will help and support us through a transition into a sustainable future.”