ACTEGA, manufacturer of specialty coatings, inks, adhesives, sealants and compounds for the print and packaging industry, announced two high-profile management appointments. Effective April 1st, 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 strong commitment to providing exemplary leadership across all its regions worldwide, as well as celebrating exceptional talent and expertise fostered within the ALTANA Group.

Andrei Sotkeviciene brings an impressive 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, Andrei Sotkeviciene has held key roles in ACTEGA do Brasil, such as Chief Financial Officer and became Managing Director in 2019. Under his leadership, ACTEGA’s business in Brasil has grown into one of the most successful regions within the division. Additionally, Andrei Sotkeviciene played a major role to combine the acquired businesses of Overlake and Premiata into ACTEGA do Brasil.

Commenting on his new role, Sotkeviciene said, "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 Andrei Sotkeviciene's appointment, Carlos Mateluna has been named Managing Director of ACTEGA do Brasil, effective March 1, 2023. 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, Carlos Mateluna developed ACTEGA Terra Chile successfully to become a market leader in this 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,” said 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,” added Thorsten Kröller.

Thorsten Kröller also expressed his gratitude to Mark Westwell, who was President of ACTEGA North America for the last nine years. Mark 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,” concluded Thorsten Kröller.