People at ALPLA - Interview with Issares Charuwonsathid
From his morning coffee at the Thinkbar to building new business opportunities in Thailand, Issares Charuwonsathid, BD SEA, plays a key role in driving growth at ALPLA. In this interview, he talks about the importance of communication, the balance between business and sustainability, and what the “ALPLA spirit” means to him in everyday work.
Issares Charuwonsathid in our office in Thailand.
Hi Issares, thanks for taking the time. Can you briefly describe your main responsibilities and what your typical workday looks like?
My role in Business Development is to strengthen our capabilities for growth and to actively drive business expansion at ALPLA.
My typical workday usually starts with a good coffee at our Thinkbar together with Nico, where we exchange updates between Business Development and Technical Center. After that, my day is mainly filled with scheduled meetings – both in person and online – to communicate and align with different stakeholders. Communication is at the core of what we do in Business Development.
What do you find most interesting about working at ALPLA?
The trust from the organization and from my superiors gives me a high degree of freedom to execute my responsibilities and achieve our goals. This entrepreneurial spirit is what motivates me the most.
How would you describe the work environment here?
The work environment at ALPLA is very people-oriented compared to others in the industry. It feels open-minded and welcoming. The shared identity and the “ALPLA spirit” within teams make our daily interactions both effective and respectful.
What are your greatest challenges in your day-to-day work?
Finding the right balance between business performance, industrial efficiency, and benefits for the community.
STUDIOa is the place where Issares can work directly with customers to develop innovative packaging solutions.
What would you say is your biggest achievement—both at work and personally?
There are three main achievements I would highlight: First, establishing a recycling facility in Thailand. Beyond strengthening ALPLA’s business, this is also a significant contribution to the circular economy in the plastics industry in Thailand.
Second, building up the Business Development organization and developing people. Creating a strong work environment and effective processes helps teams succeed, while also turning daily work into a continuous learning experience. This benefits both ALPLA and the personal growth of our employees.
Third, developing new business opportunities for ALPLA. This not only strengthens our position but also provides better packaging solutions for the market and consumers in Thailand.
How do you motivate your colleagues?
Stay open-minded. Don’t let the past limit today’s and tomorrow’s opportunities for change.
What advice would you give to colleagues who are just starting their career at ALPLA?
Unleash your potential and take ownership of your responsibilities. You will rarely find an environment that offers this level of opportunity elsewhere.
What’s your favorite place in the world?
Any place where people are open-minded.
What do you like to do in your free time? What are your favorite hobbies?
My current hobby is learning classical guitar. I started while my son was attending his piano lessons.
What do you find most interesting about working at ALPLA?
I am still fascinated by the culture at ALPLA. It brings together people from different parts of the world to work together seriously, yet in harmony and with mutual respect. If the world had a bit more of the ALPLA spirit, it would be a better place.
Please describe ALPLA in three words.
Family. University. Entrepreneurial.
Is there anything else we should have asked you?
Yes – what is your favorite food in Austria? Its definitely Wiener Schnitzel (veal) with cranberries, potato salad with vinegar, and a glass of Grüner Veltliner.
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