Tiede takes helm at Sonoco

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Robert C. Tiede has become president and CEO of Sonoco, replacing the retiring Jack Sanders. Tiede is the ninth CEO in the history of the 119-year-old diversified global packaging company based in Hartsville.

“It’s humbling and truly an honor to have the opportunity to lead such a storied company with a legacy going back more than a century,” Tiede said in a statement. “This is an exciting time for Sonoco as we continue to evolve our portfolio and geographic footprint in ways that help us serve our purpose.”

Tiede was previously executive vice president and COO of the company.

Sanders served as Sonoco president and CEO since 2013.  

“Rob has made significant contributions to Sonoco over the past 14 years, especially as we have worked to expand our consumer packaging business,” said Sonoco board chairman Harris DeLoach. “We look forward to Rob’s leadership as we continue to build upon our existing foundation while charting new courses for growth.”

Since joining Sonoco in 2004, Tiede has led the company’s consumer-related businesses, which have increased sales by approximately 90% and operating profits by 120% during his tenure.

Tiede, a native of Winnipeg, Canada, who became a U.S. citizen in 2013, is also the chairman of the Hartsville United Way.