Yesterday, I had the privilege of hearing Anthony Smurfit, Group CEO of Smurfit Westrock, share invaluable insights from his global business journey. From its humble beginnings (pictured) as a small box-making factory, Smurfit Westrock (then Smurfit Kappa) has risen to become Ireland's first multinational and a world leader in corrugated packaging innovation.
🌍 Over the last 85 years, the company has expanded across 40 countries with over 100,000 employees working across 500+ packaging converting operations and 62 paper mills. This extraordinary growth is a reflection of Irish entrepreneurial spirit, but as Anthony made clear, the real driver of Smurfit Westrock’s success is simple: People, People, People! The company’s story is one rooted in the strength of human capital—where Irish talent, integrity, and resilience have taken a small local business and turned it into a global leader.
💡 One of the most powerful messages Anthony shared was the importance of human connection in the workplace. He told the story of a Smurfit employee who recently retired after 40 years and, in his farewell letter, wrote that he “never had to compromise his integrity once.” This example speaks volumes about the company’s culture—a culture where loyalty, respect, and integrity are paramount, allowing employees to grow and develop over their entire careers.
Anthony also emphasised the need to use your time wisely— giving back to your community and ensuring that profit is not the sole focus of what you do. This human-first approach has not only delivered impressive returns but also ensured the company remains grounded in its core values, proving that businesses can thrive while prioritising people over profit.
When reflecting on Ireland’s distinctive economic journey, it’s clear that, alongside business acumen, a strong belief in the value of relationships, community, and human connection has been central to its success. This foundation has allowed Irish businesses like Smurfit Westrock to thrive on the global stage.
Smurfit Westrock is a shining example of how businesses can Harness the Power of Human Connection as a competitive advantage. The future of work and leadership is social & human, and Smurfit Westrock's success proves that by placing people at the heart of your business, you can create a model that is innovative, resilient, and built for long-term success.
I left feeling truly inspired, and proud to witness the continued strength of Irish entrepreneurship and its global impact.
#Leadership #IrishBusiness #HarnessthePowerofHumanConnection #Xenergie
Consumer Marketing Manager
2moGo Massy Team!