When Sam Schlaich talks about his career, it’s clear he’s exactly where he’s meant to be. As Director of Government Affairs at Novolex, he helps shape the policies, driving one of the most innovative sectors in manufacturing.
“There really is no such thing as an average day in government affairs,” he says. “One day I might be meeting with legislators, the next, I’m at a conference on emerging recycling technologies. My favorite days, though, are spent in our plants—seeing our products made in real time never gets old.”
Novolex, a major force in advancing recycling and circularity and leading manufacturer of packaging and foodservice products made from plastic, paper, and renewable materials, employs over 20,000 employees across over 100 facilities in North America and Europe. It operates one of the nation’s largest plastic bag recycling programs—turning used bags into new products at its recycling centers, including a recently expanded facility in the Midwest.
Novolex is also an active member of the American Recyclable Plastic Bag Alliance (ARPBA) and the Flexible Film Recycling Alliance (FFRA), driving collaboration and innovation across the value chain.
Sam joined Novolex two years ago, bringing a strong background in politics and public policy. “Before plastics, I worked for the Maryland General Assembly,” he says. “After the pandemic, I wanted a role that combined my policy experience with a dynamic, solutions-driven industry—and that’s how I found my way into plastics.”
That transition sparked a lasting passion for the industry—and some meaningful professional relationships. “Early on, I was fortunate to have mentors who took the time to teach me the ins and outs of plastics and policy,” Sam shares. “Phil Rozenski, who’s now my boss, was one of those people. He spent hours walking me through issues, introducing me to key players, and helping me build a foundation in the industry. I’m really grateful for that mentorship and for the chance to work directly with him now.”
For Sam, the best part of working in plastics is simple: the people. “It doesn’t matter if you’re on an extrusion line, in engineering, or in the C-suite—this industry is full of great people who are proud of what they do,” he says. “That passion is contagious.”
A big part of Sam’s job involves tackling challenges head-on, especially when it comes to public perception. “One of the biggest issues our industry faces misinformation,” Sam says. “There’s a lot of confusion around plastics and recycling. We have to find new and creative ways to share the facts and show people the real impact this industry has. I think initiatives like Recycling is Real are doing a great job of that.”
Sam has been part of FLiP for about a year, and he’s all in. “It’s been great to connect with other young professionals who care about what they do,” he says. “The personal connections have been the biggest benefit for me. It’s a group that works hard and plays hard. You get to see people accomplish amazing things and enjoy themselves while doing it.”
As for the next generation thinking about joining the plastics industry? Sam’s advice is clear. “The people are amazing, the industry is dynamic, and there are so many directions you can take your career. Plastics touch nearly every part of our lives and it’s an exciting place to be.”
When he’s not on the road or deep in policy discussions, Sam keeps active and grounded. “I’m one of seven siblings, so there’s always something going on with my family,” he says. “I love spending time with my nieces and nephews and I’m definitely guilty of spoiling them. I’m also a big runner and really enjoy obstacle and mud races during the warmer months.”
And the one plastic product he couldn’t live without? “Plastic bags,” he admits. “I keep a huge stockpile in my kitchen pantry. I use them all the time, especially on work trips for gym clothes or running shoes. And for the record: they’re 100% recyclable.”
PLASTICS and the Future Leaders in Plastics (FLiP) Committee are devoted to supporting and encouraging the next generation of plastics leaders who will play a crucial role in the innovation, technology and future of the plastics industry. FLiP’s mission is to provide young professionals under the age of 40 the exposure, education and resources they need to build lifelong careers in plastics. Want to join? Want to get your employees involved? Email: [email protected]
