SUN Automation Board (CONT’D FROM PAGE 12)
such a unique form of governance that creates transpar- ency, accountability, and pride among our employees. As the original ESOP obligation has been satisfied, SUN is 100 percent employee-owned. Excellent fiduciary man- agement has resulted in a totally debt free company.”
it became community. This industry is relationship-based, and if you don’t lead with honesty, that’s a reputation that will follow you.” Rounding out the board are Jerry Hessel, retired Execu- tive Vice President of Menasha; Ron Diedeman, who spent more than 50 years in corrugated and retired as SUN’s President in 2018; Ken Hoffman, former Global President of Signode; Joe Hikel, President of Shelter Systems with over 40 years in manufacturing; and Chris Kyger, President of SUN with more than 30 years in corrugated. Together, they bring a balance of plant-level insight, executive lead- ership, engineering expertise, and financial acumen. “It’s a unique board,” Jones says. “I don’t know anyone else in the industry with this kind of depth. Over 300 years of corrugated experience in one room is invaluable.” Ownership That Inspires SUN’s board doesn’t just bring knowledge; it operates within a governance model that ensures alignment across the company. Since 2003, SUN has been 100 percent em- ployee-owned through an ESOP. Every employee has a stake in the company’s future, both financially and cultur- ally. “When I look at our success, I point to the ESOP,” shares Rauschart. “Lou Sardella and Pat O’Connor had the fore- sight to share their success with the people who helped build the company,” Rauschart continues. “The ESOP is
Research backs what SUN has lived for two decades: ESOP companies typically outperform expectations, grow faster, and provide greater retirement security. A 2000 Rutgers study revealed that ESOP companies grow 2.3 to 2.4 percent faster after implementing their ESOP than would have been expected otherwise. Pivotal Decisions And Defining Moments Both Rauschart and Mills pointed to the same moment as one of the most defining in SUN’s history: the 2016 CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
is now
Three legendary brands...
ESTABLISHED 1946
Together now as one unmatched partner!
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October 6, 2025
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