Meet Our Sales & Marketing Director: A Conversation with Christopher Holtenfjord
In our series celebrating the people who make Esvama what it is, we’re excited to introduce Christopher Holtenfjord. As Esvama’s Sales and Marketing Director, Christopher brings a thoughtful, customer-first approach that has been a powerful force in our journey. From his journey to co-founding Esvama alongside Ted to his passion for sustainability, Christopher offers a closer look at how Esvama strives to make a real difference in the industry.
Personal Journey and Vision
Esvama’s story began when Christopher and CEO Ted decided to build something new after moving on from their previous roles. With Ted’s deep expertise in the plastics industry and Christopher’s background in sales, their partnership felt like a natural fit. “We saw a gap in the market and knew we could offer something different,” Christopher shares. Esvama’s approach combines a wide product range, quick response times, and fast deliveries from warehouses strategically located close to customers – creating an experience where clients feel genuinely supported and valued.
For Christopher, moving Esvama’s vision forward means staying focused on high-quality service with a light environmental footprint. He’s cultivated a work culture that encourages open feedback and fresh ideas, helping Esvama stay flexible and find innovative, sustainable solutions that benefit both their customers and the planet.
Customer-Centric and Sustainable Approach
Esvama’s commitment to speed, flexibility, and sustainability has strengthened client relationships. Christopher recalls a recent moment when a customer urgently needed materials to keep production going. “Because of our quick, adaptable delivery setup,we were able to supply what they needed from a nearby warehouse – all while staying true to our sustainability goals.” This level of care, which Christopher simply calls “just regular customer service at Esvama,” left a strong impression on the client, who appreciated the quick, eco-friendly response.
To align sales with Esvama’s eco-goals, Christopher emphasizes recycled materials, guides the team on sustainable practices, and encourages transport partners to lower their carbon footprints. “Our team knows how to guide customers toward sustainable options,” he notes, ensuring Esvama meets client needs responsibly.
Marketing Strategy and Innovation
Esvama’s commitment to sustainability is at the heart of its marketing. Working with a marketing agency, Christopher ensures that Esvama’s environmental values come through clearly and genuinely. “Our focus on recycled materials and sustainable practices isn’t just a selling point, it’s central to who we are and how we connect with our customers,” he explains. By highlighting these values, Esvama builds trust with customers who prioritize transparency and environmental responsibility.
Innovation in technology is also a crucial part of Esvama’s approach to customer engagement. “Technology allows us to connect with our clients in real-time, keeping them informed and engaged at every step,” Christopher notes. The team uses tools like delivery tracking and is exploring AI to anticipate market trends and customer needs. “AI could be transformative for us,” he adds, “helping us stay ahead in a constantly evolving market and adapt our services to better meet customer expectations.”
Navigating Market Trends and Logistics
Christopher and the Esvama team stay proactive by closely monitoring industry trends, listening to customer feedback, and staying active on social media. Esvama also collaborates with students conducting thesis research on life cycle analyses, which Christopher finds invaluable: “These collaborations keep us at the forefront of sustainable practices,” he says. This adaptability has led to an expanded range of eco-friendly products, further solidifying Esvama’s standing in the market.
When it comes to logistics, Esvama is committed to efficiency and environmental responsibility. “Optimizing delivery routes and partnering with sustainable suppliers are crucial,” Christopher explains, “but it’s also about making sure that every step of our process minimizes our environmental footprint.” His approach is to combine high service standards with responsible practices, ensuring Esvama meets its sustainability goals while maintaining excellent customer service.
”I look for individuals who truly care about sustainability and who are willing to go the extra mile for our customers”
Bringing Together a Dedicated Team
When it comes to building a sales and marketing team that reflects Esvama’s values, Christopher focuses on finding the right people. “I look for individuals who truly care about sustainability and who are willing to go the extra mile for our customers,” he says. For him, the ideal team member is someone who brings creativity to the table, thrives in collaboration, and can keep things light and enjoyable.
To keep innovation and adaptability alive within the team, Christopher actively supports continuous learning. “Courses and training programs are great, but we also want to create a culture where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and feedback,” he explains. This openness has become a key part of Esvama’s culture, allowing the company to stay agile, ready to embrace change, and continually improve. “It’s all about trust and mutual respect,” Christopher adds, “and having a shared vision for making a positive impact.”
Closing Thoughts
Christopher’s dedication to blending customer service with sustainability shines through in every decision he makes at Esvama. His leadership approach reflects a passion for both the team and the planet, embodying Esvama’s commitment to doing business the right way – efficiently, sustainably, and with a personal touch. Through this article, we hope you’ve gained a better understanding of the vision driving Esvama’s sales and marketing.
Do you want to contribute to a more sustainable industry?
