Transformation within manufacturing demands more than operational precision. It requires human capital strategy capable of aligning culture, growth and performance across evolving markets. Monica Ziesing Anderton, Chief Human Resources Officer of DS Smith North America Packaging and Paper, was recruited in 2019 to lead integration and organizational design following the company’s expansion into the United States. From the outset, her mandate combined business turnaround with sustainable growth.

A defining chapter of her leadership emerged in Lebanon, Indiana, where DS Smith launched one of the largest packaging manufacturing facilities in the world. The plant’s innovative lightweight packaging design reduced fiber usage significantly compared to traditional boxes. Yet the real innovation extended beyond production lines. Ziesing Anderton spearheaded the creation of an Interpreter Diversity Program designed to expand the talent pipeline in a tight labor market. By establishing Spanish to English interpreter roles on every shift, she enabled inclusive recruiting, onboarding, training and communication practices that welcomed employees who otherwise might have been overlooked.

The program transformed workforce demographics and strengthened operational stability. Hispanic representation at the facility grew substantially, turnover declined and safety performance remained strong due to clearer communication in training environments. Cultural dialogue flourished as English- and Spanish-speaking employees learned from one another. Word of mouth within the greater Indianapolis community reinforced the company’s reputation as a fair and equitable employer offering advancement opportunities. The initiative earned national recognition, including a Leadership in Sustainability award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from the American Forest and Paper Association.

Ziesing Anderton’s influence extended through the broader enterprise as DS Smith doubled in size during her tenure. She guided recruiting, talent development and organizational design while serving as a trusted advisor to senior leadership. Following the acquisition of DS Smith by International Paper, she led complex integration efforts focused on aligning people strategies across both entities. Media outlets and industry forums have sought her perspective on workforce evolution, reflecting her standing as a respected voice in manufacturing human capital.

Recognition as a Titan 100 Honoree affirms her ability to combine commercial acumen with empathy and steadiness through pandemic disruption, acquisition integration and shifting business priorities. Colleagues consistently describe her as a lifelong learner who ensures human resources holds a valued seat at the strategic table.

Beyond corporate achievement, Ziesing Anderton remains committed to professional mentorship. She has served in leadership roles within Atlanta’s human resources community and actively supports emerging HR talent. Of all her accomplishments, she takes greatest pride in the teams she has developed and the culture she helped cultivate. By fostering engagement, reducing attrition and elevating performance across manufacturing operations, she demonstrates that sustainable growth begins with people.