Plastic Ingenuity Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Plastic Ingenuity has 6 executives leading key functions including revenue growth, operational efficiency, information technology, satellite manufacturing, human capital, and corporate strategy.

Focused on sustainable thermoforming solutions, Plastic Ingenuity delivers advanced packaging materials to the food, healthcare, and consumer goods sectors while prioritizing renewable resource integration.

Leadership Roles at Plastic Ingenuity

  • Chief Operating Officer - Richard Esser
  • Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations - Jess Mellethin
  • President - Tom Kuehn
  • Chief Revenue Officer - Sakif Ferdous
  • Chief Information Officer - Michael Phy
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Tracey Hustad
  • Richard Esser - Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Esser, the Chief Operating Officer at Plastic Ingenuity, manages the end-to-end manufacturing processes for custom thermoformed products. Esser oversees the production facilities to ensure maximum efficiency in the utilization of materials such as PSM and wood pulp. The Chief Operating Officer coordinates with engineering teams to refine thermoforming techniques, maintaining high quality standards for healthcare and food industry clients. Richard Esser drives operational excellence by implementing lean manufacturing principles across all production lines. This role requires constant monitoring of supply chain logistics to maintain consistent output levels despite fluctuating raw material availability. By streamlining internal workflows, the Chief Operating Officer reduces waste and enhances overall manufacturing throughput. Esser ensures that all operational activities align with the broader corporate mission of providing sustainable packaging solutions. Through meticulous oversight, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the integrity of the production cycle.
    Richard Esser

    Jess Mellethin - Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations

    Jess Mellethin, the Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations at Plastic Ingenuity, manages the specialized production workflows located at regional satellite facilities. Mellethin directs the localized manufacturing of custom thermoformed packaging, ensuring that each site adheres to the strict quality standards required by the food and healthcare industries. The Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations coordinates with the central leadership team to synchronize production schedules and resource allocation across the broader network. Jess Mellethin drives operational agility by optimizing site-specific processes for renewable material handling. This role involves managing regional workforce training and equipment maintenance to ensure consistent output quality. By focusing on the unique requirements of satellite manufacturing, the Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations enhances the overall responsiveness of the company to regional market demands. Mellethin ensures that every satellite facility contributes effectively to the overarching mission of sustainable packaging production.

    Tom Kuehn - President

    Tom Kuehn, the President at Plastic Ingenuity, defines the overarching strategic vision for the company, focusing on the expansion of custom thermoforming services. Kuehn directs the executive team to ensure alignment between market opportunities in the food, healthcare, and consumer goods industries and the internal manufacturing capabilities. The President oversees the transition toward renewable resource packaging, driving the adoption of materials like PLA and PSM to meet global sustainability targets. Tom Kuehn facilitates high-level partnerships and manages the long-term financial health of the organization. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of the competitive landscape to identify new avenues for growth and innovation. By setting clear objectives for each department, the President ensures that the company remains at the forefront of the packaging industry. Kuehn drives the corporate mission forward through decisive leadership and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the business.
    Tom Kuehn

    Sakif Ferdous - Chief Revenue Officer

    Sakif Ferdous, the Chief Revenue Officer at Plastic Ingenuity, directs all commercial growth initiatives across the food, healthcare, and consumer goods markets. Ferdous architects high-impact sales strategies that prioritize renewable resource packaging over traditional petroleum-based alternatives. By aligning market demand with custom thermoforming capabilities, the Chief Revenue Officer expands the company footprint throughout North American territories. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with product development teams to ensure that material innovations like PLA and wood pulp meet evolving client requirements. Sakif Ferdous drives revenue through strategic account management and the identification of emerging industry trends. Through rigorous analysis of market shifts, the Chief Revenue Officer secures long-term partnerships that solidify the company position as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. Ultimately, Ferdous optimizes the sales funnel to ensure consistent financial performance and market penetration.

    Michael Phy - Chief Information Officer

    Michael Phy, the Chief Information Officer at Plastic Ingenuity, architects the digital infrastructure supporting custom thermoforming manufacturing services. Phy directs the implementation of advanced data systems that track material usage and production metrics across all facilities. The Chief Information Officer ensures that secure, scalable technology platforms facilitate seamless communication between the manufacturing floor and corporate headquarters. Michael Phy drives digital transformation by integrating automated reporting tools that provide real-time visibility into supply chain performance. This leadership role involves protecting sensitive client data within the healthcare and consumer goods sectors through robust cybersecurity protocols. By modernizing the IT landscape, the Chief Information Officer enables data-driven decision-making for the entire executive team. Phy maintains the technological backbone necessary for the company to innovate with renewable resources. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer optimizes system performance to support the long-term growth objectives of the organization.

    Tracey Hustad - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Tracey Hustad, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Plastic Ingenuity, directs the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies necessary for a specialized manufacturing workforce. Hustad architects programs that foster a culture of innovation, particularly regarding the adoption of renewable resource packaging materials. The Chief Human Resources Officer oversees performance management systems that align individual contributions with the company goals in the food and healthcare sectors. Tracey Hustad drives employee engagement through comprehensive training initiatives focused on advanced thermoforming techniques and safety protocols. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to ensure that human capital strategies support the long-term growth of the organization. By cultivating a skilled and motivated workforce, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the company maintains a competitive edge in the manufacturing industry. Hustad manages all aspects of organizational health to support the mission of sustainable production.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Plastic Ingenuity Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Plastic Ingenuity?
    Plastic Ingenuity is led by Richard Esser (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Jess Mellethin (Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations) and Tom Kuehn (President).
    Who is part of Plastic Ingenuity’s executive team?
    The executive team of Plastic Ingenuity includes leaders such as Richard Esser (Chief Operating Officer), Jess Mellethin (Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations), Tom Kuehn (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Plastic Ingenuity have?
    Plastic Ingenuity has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Plastic Ingenuity’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Plastic Ingenuity includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Satellite Operations, President, Chief Revenue Officer, Chief Information Officer.