After more than twenty years of dedicated service, Annette Schäfer concluded her role as Administration Manager of EUMEPS in January 2026. Her journey into the EPS industry began unexpectedly, following a freelance assignment that introduced her—then a cultural studies graduate—to the technical and regulatory world of expanded polystyrene. What began as a coincidence developed into a long-standing professional commitment to the association and the wider EPS sector.
Over two decades, Annette witnessed and actively supported the transformation of both EUMEPS and the industry it represents. From strengthening the association’s internal structures to navigating increasing policy engagement in Brussels, she contributed to a period marked by growing attention to sustainability, circular economy principles, and energy efficiency. As EUMEPS evolved to reflect new European priorities, her role in ensuring organisational continuity and strategic coordination proved essential.
In this interview, Annette reflects on the changes she has observed, the milestones that shaped her time at EUMEPS, and the lessons she carries forward into her next professional chapter.
Let’s start with your early career. What brought you to the EPS industry?
It was pure coincidence. As a freelancer, I had just finished a major project and was looking for a new assignment when I came across a call for support from a European association. I applied and got the contract. As a cultural studies graduate, the chemical industry was new and exciting to me. At the same time, I suspect it was just as new and interesting for representatives of the chemical industry to work with someone from a humanities background.
Over twenty years, the EPS industry has changed significantly, particularly in terms of sustainability and diversity. How would you describe this evolution, and which advances do you consider most significant?
The situation today is hardly comparable to where we started. The association’s scope has expanded considerably, especially with regard to sustainability and the circular economy. Balancing economic viability with sustainability is a real challenge for an association representing the chemical industry. EUMEPS had to evolve accordingly – and in my view, it has done so very successfully. This evolution was driven by growing professionalism and a strong team in Brussels that has developed in an impressive way over the years.
As EUMEPS’s Manager, you led numerous organisational activities. Which initiatives or accomplishments make you proudest, and why?
It is impossible to answer with a single example. What I am proud of is that EUMEPS has continuously redefined itself, and that I had the opportunity to actively shape this process together with the team. The transformation of the past few years has been the most visible and intensive phase. Today, both the industry and the material are clearly positioned on the political stage in Brussels. Achieving this as a relatively small European association required a strong message, strategic clarity, flexibility and a high level of personal commitment across the organisation.
Could you outline the professional projects you are now pursuing and explain how your experience in the EPS sector influences these new initiatives?
Going forward, I am focusing on my own business, which I have built up in Germany. We work with teams and individuals on effective and respectful communication. In many ways, the EPS sector led me there. Communication at the association level was not always easy, and my personal ambition was to make collaboration possible. I began to deepen my skills in facilitation and communication – and discovered a genuine passion in this field.
How do you see the future of the EPS industry within the framework of EU priorities such as the Green Deal, the circular economy and energy efficiency? Do you see particular opportunities or challenges?
The development of political framework conditions is difficult to predict. The past few years have shown how quickly political agendas can change. Trust in political processes has declined, often at the expense of innovation and investment. It will be interesting to see how the industry navigates these uncertainties while continuing to contribute to long-term European goals.
Finally, what message would you like to share with your colleagues and partners in the EPS sector as you begin this new phase of your career?
I look back with appreciation for the trust, the collaboration and the shared commitment over many years. EUMEPS has been an important professional chapter for me, and I wish the association and its partners continued clarity and resilience for the future.
Annette Schäfer’s reflections offer valuable insight into the evolution of EUMEPS and the EPS industry over the past two decades. During her tenure, the association expanded its scope, strengthened its presence in European policy discussions, and reinforced its commitment to positioning EPS as a resource-efficient, recyclable and high-performance material aligned with EU sustainability objectives.
Her experience highlights the importance of organisational adaptability, clear communication and collaborative spirit within a European association representing a diverse value chain. As she embarks on a new professional path focused on effective and respectful communication, she leaves behind an association that is well positioned to continue contributing to Europe’s climate-neutral and circular economy ambitions.
Her professional journey illustrates how commitment, openness to change and strong teamwork can shape not only an organisation, but also the broader industry it serves.