Esko Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Esko has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, operations, and regional management.

Driven by innovation in graphic arts, Esko is dedicated to advancing pre-press solutions for packaging and labels, shaping the future of the industry through cutting-edge software and hardware.

Leadership Roles at Esko

  • Chief Executive Officer - Chandra Meesala
  • Chief Financial Officer - Hagar Sheps
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - James Jenkins
  • Chief Operating Officer - Tamar Friedman
  • Cut Systems President & Founder I - Steen Mikkelsen
  • President, North America - Simon James
  • President - Juan Da Silva
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Gary Iles
  • Chandra Meesala - Chief Executive Officer

    Chandra Meesala, the Chief Executive Officer at Esko, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Meesala guides Esko's expansion within the packaging and labels pre-press software and hardware markets. This leadership involves fostering innovation and ensuring the company's technological advancements align with industry demands. Meesala's oversight extends to all departments, driving growth and market leadership. The Chief Executive Officer ensures Esko maintains its position as a key player in the graphic arts sector. Chandra Meesala's focus remains on sustainable development and enhancing customer value through superior product offerings. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of global market dynamics and technological trends. Meesala actively shapes Esko's long-term trajectory, solidifying its reputation for excellence.

    Hagar Sheps - Chief Financial Officer

    Hagar Sheps, the Chief Financial Officer at Esko, manages all financial operations and strategic financial planning. Sheps oversees budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal health and compliance. This role is critical for Esko's sustained growth in the competitive graphic arts industry. Sheps analyzes financial performance, identifying opportunities for cost optimization and revenue enhancement. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in investment decisions and capital allocation. Hagar Sheps ensures robust financial controls are in place to support Esko's pre-press software and hardware development. This leadership position involves close collaboration with other executives to align financial strategies with business objectives. Sheps's expertise supports Esko's expansion and operational efficiency.
    Hagar Sheps

    James Jenkins - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    James Jenkins, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Esko, provides critical financial leadership and strategic oversight. Jenkins supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing Esko's financial health and driving fiscal discipline. This role involves detailed financial analysis, risk management, and contributing to long-term financial planning for the company's pre-press software and hardware divisions. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures financial strategies align with Esko's growth objectives in the packaging and labels industry. James Jenkins's responsibilities include overseeing financial reporting and compliance, maintaining transparency and accuracy. This executive function is vital for supporting Esko's operational expansion and investment initiatives. Jenkins's expertise contributes significantly to the company's financial stability and strategic decision-making.

    Tamar Friedman - Chief Operating Officer

    Tamar Friedman, the Chief Operating Officer at Esko, directs daily operations and optimizes business processes. Friedman ensures the efficient delivery of Esko's pre-press software and hardware solutions to clients worldwide. This role involves managing supply chains, production, and customer support functions. The Chief Operating Officer focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and scalability across Esko's global footprint. Tamar Friedman oversees the implementation of new technologies and methodologies to improve workflow and productivity. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining high standards of quality and service. Friedman collaborates with other executives to align operational strategies with the company's overall business objectives. The Chief Operating Officer's efforts support Esko's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

    Steen Mikkelsen - Cut Systems President & Founder I

    Steen Mikkelsen, the Cut Systems President & Founder I at Esko, leads the specialized division focused on cutting systems. Mikkelsen drives innovation and strategic development for Esko's cutting hardware and associated software solutions. This leadership role involves guiding the product roadmap and ensuring technological superiority in the market. The Cut Systems President & Founder I oversees research and development efforts specific to cutting technologies. Steen Mikkelsen's deep understanding of the industry, stemming from founding the division, provides invaluable insight into market needs and future trends. This executive function is critical for maintaining Esko's competitive edge in specialized cutting solutions. Mikkelsen's vision shapes the future direction of Esko's cutting systems portfolio.

    Simon James - President, North America

    Simon James, the President, North America at Esko, directs all business operations and strategic initiatives across the North American region. James is responsible for expanding Esko's market share for pre-press software and hardware solutions within the United States and Canada. This leadership involves overseeing sales, marketing, and customer support functions tailored to the North American market. The President, North America ensures Esko's offerings meet the specific demands of regional clients in the packaging and labels industries. Simon James fosters key relationships with partners and customers, driving revenue growth and operational excellence. This executive role is pivotal in executing Esko's global strategy at a regional level. James's focus remains on strengthening Esko's presence and impact in this vital market.

    Juan Da Silva - President

    Juan Da Silva, the President at Esko, oversees key strategic initiatives and operational functions within the organization. Da Silva contributes to the overall direction and performance of Esko's pre-press software and hardware business. This leadership role involves driving business development and ensuring alignment with corporate objectives. The President focuses on enhancing Esko's market position and fostering innovation across its product lines. Juan Da Silva collaborates with executive leadership to identify growth opportunities and address market challenges. This executive function is essential for the sustained success and expansion of Esko's operations. Da Silva's leadership supports the company's mission to provide advanced solutions to the graphic arts industry.

    Gary Iles - Chief Marketing Officer

    Gary Iles, the Chief Marketing Officer at Esko, spearheads all marketing initiatives and brand strategy. Iles drives market penetration for Esko's pre-press software and hardware solutions within the packaging and labels sectors. This leadership involves developing and executing comprehensive marketing campaigns that highlight Esko's technological innovation. The Chief Marketing Officer analyzes market trends and customer needs to inform product development and positioning. Gary Iles oversees digital marketing, content creation, and public relations efforts. This role is essential for building brand awareness and generating demand across global markets. Iles ensures Esko's value proposition resonates with target audiences, fostering strong customer relationships and driving sales growth. The Chief Marketing Officer's strategic direction shapes Esko's market presence.
    Gary Iles

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Esko Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Esko?
    Esko is led by Chandra Meesala (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Hagar Sheps (Chief Financial Officer) and James Jenkins (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Esko’s executive team?
    The executive team of Esko includes leaders such as Chandra Meesala (Chief Executive Officer), Hagar Sheps (Chief Financial Officer), James Jenkins (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Esko have?
    Esko has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Esko’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Esko includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Cut Systems President & Founder I.