Apex International entrusts its European leadership to Patrick van de Werdt to accelerate digitalization

Apex International has formalized the appointment of Patrick van de Werdt as Managing Director of Apex Europe, a strategic move effective since August 2026 that underscores the anilox manufacturer's pivot toward advanced digitalization and operational efficiency.

Van de Werdt arrives with over 25 years of industrial management experience, primarily forged in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. This background outside the traditional printing bubble signals Apex's intent to import rigorous, high-volume manufacturing disciplines into the flexographic and packaging supply chain.

Artificial intelligence applied to anilox manufacturing

Crucially, his academic and professional focus aligns with the packaging industry's current technological shift. Holding an MBA from Alliance Manchester Business School with a specialization in digitalization and disruptive business models, van de Werdt recently completed an AI leadership program. He has explicitly stated his intention to apply artificial intelligence to improve service delivery, streamline workflows, and boost operational efficiency at Apex's European facilities.

Ruud van Cuijk, CEO of Apex International, emphasized that van de Werdt's track record in industrial leadership will be vital for driving sustainable, profitable growth. The new Managing Director takes full accountability for the European division's performance, aiming to expand the company's range of products and services while deepening technical relationships with converters and press manufacturers.

A broader corporate restructuring

This appointment is not an isolated event. It follows a broader restructuring of Apex's global leadership throughout the final quarter of 2026, including the recent promotions of Martin Euwe to Chief Financial Officer and Nick Harvey to Global Commercial Vice President. Together, these moves reflect a consolidated effort by the Netherlands-based manufacturer to fortify its market position and operational resilience in the highly competitive anilox roll and sleeve market for the global packaging industry.