Employee Spotlight: Harold Von Spreckelsen - 35 Years in Plastic Film Business Development

Celebrating 35 Years in Plastic Film Business Development: Harold Von Spreckelsen

When Harold Von Spreckelsen joined Achilles USA in January 1990, he saw an intriguing opportunity in marketing and business development that quickly grew into a long-term calling. Over 35 years, he has helped shape Achilles USA’s direction through meaningful projects, customer partnerships, and global collaboration in the plastic film industry.

What began as “an interesting job” became a career marked by impact, growth, and continuous learning.

How Plastic Film Business Development Shaped Harold’s Career

Plastic film business development is all about understanding customer needs, market trends, and what the plant can deliver. Harold made that shift in 2000 when he moved from marketing into sales, taking on more responsibility for growing Achilles USA’s medical business.

He played a key role in helping medical device and healthcare customers find the right PVC and specialty films for their applications, from performance requirements to regulatory expectations.

One project that stands out for Harold is his work with Achilles Japan. He partnered closely with the team there to help set up and grow medical business on their side. That experience highlighted how powerful cross-border collaboration can be when technical expertise and shared goals come together.

Culture that Fuels Long-Term Growth

When asked what kept him energized for 35 years, Harold immediately points to culture. Achilles USA has always encouraged people to take initiative, explore ideas, and run with opportunities.

That trust and autonomy gave Harold room to grow as a leader in plastic film business development, build strong customer relationships, and pursue new markets without feeling boxed in.

Exploring New Opportunities on the Cast Line

Today, Harold is focused on expanding new business for the cast line, especially with customers outside traditional PVC film applications. He sees real potential for cast films in areas that need clarity, consistency, and tailored performance.

Working alongside other Business Development Managers, he is helping the team better understand Achilles USA’s evolving capabilities so they can match film technology with emerging customer needs.

From Rolodex Cards to Digital Tools

When Harold started, the tools of the trade looked very different, with Rolodex cards, manual typewriters, and flight directories instead of email, CRMs, and video calls.

Even as technology changed, his core approach to plastic film business development stayed the same: build trust, listen carefully, and solve problems. Digital tools simply helped him do those things faster and at a larger scale.

Life Outside of Work

Outside the office, Harold enjoys long walks, reading, and time with his now-grown children. He stays active in his church and is excited about his next chapter as a grandfather.

That balance between professional commitment and personal life has helped sustain his energy and perspective over three and a half decades.

Advice for the Next Generation

For new employees, Harold’s advice is simple and practical. Do not be afraid to take risks. Try new things, go after opportunities, and always reach out to collaborate.

He believes the best ideas often come from working with others across departments, locations, and backgrounds, which is exactly how strong plastic film business development happens.

Honoring Harold’s Impact

Harold Von Spreckelsen’s 35-year journey at Achilles USA shows what is possible when experience, curiosity, and a supportive culture come together. His contributions in plastic film business development, especially in medical markets and cast film expansion, have helped position Achilles USA as a trusted partner for customers with complex film needs.

Thank you, Harold, for your leadership, innovation, and the decades of insight you continue to bring to Achilles USA.

Interested in joining an exceptional team like Achilles USA? Visit our careers page!