2. Contents
• Executive Summary
• Education
• Experience
• Awards / Recognition
• Technical Leadership
• Common Sense Flexography
– Description
– Foreword
– Industry Reviews
– University Programs
Contents continued
3. • Presentations
• Publications
• Environmental, Health and Safety Contributions
• Additional Training / Skills
• References
• Contact Information
4. Executive Summary
• Marketing Executive with extensive experience cost-effectively building a strong
corporate brand from strategic planning through tactical execution.
• Enthusiastic Business to Business Sales Professional with a passion to go the extra mile
to insure customer success and satisfaction.
• Technical Specialist with expertise in flexographic printing, laser engraving, process
troubleshooting, quality assurance and thermal spray coating technologies.
• Award-winning team leader with multidisciplinary expertise capable of effectively
managing multiple priorities.
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5. Education
• Concordia University Wisconsin - 2000
Masters of Business Administration - (Marketing)
• Concordia University Wisconsin - 1997
Bachelor of Arts - (Management & Communications)
Graduated Magna cum Laude
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6. Experience
• D. J. Lanska & Associates LLC (2009 - Present)
– President
• Stork Cellramic, Inc. (1982 - 2009)
– Regional Sales Manager
– Narrow Web Sales Manager
– Canadian Regional Sales Manager / Technical Manager
– Technical Marketing Coordinator
– Earlier Positions
• Laser Department / QA Supervisor
• Maintenance Supervisor
• Production Technician
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7. D. J. Lanska & Associates LLC
(Confidential technical and marketing support services to improve business
productivity, profitability, safety and sustainability).
President - (2009 - Present)
• Web site and value proposition development for a label printer.
• Product portfolio enhancement.
• Market intelligence for a custom control system manufacturer to penetrate new
markets.
• Technical assistance with the installation and integration of a coating machine into a film
line.
• Trade show sales support for a European equipment manufacturer exhibiting in the US.
• Establishment of the Flexographic Technical Association Great Lakes Group.
• Contribution to Flexography Principles & Practices 6th Edition.
• Contribution to development of the In-Plant EHS Self Assessment for Flexographic
Printers v. 2.0.
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8. Stork Cellramic, Inc.
(Manufactures laser engraved (anilox) rolls for flexographic printing, sells ancillary supplies
and cleaning equipment. Applies surface enhancement coatings for industrial components).
Regional Sales Manager - (2005 to 2009)
• Devised and implementing market introduction strategies for several new products.
• Strengthened the product portfolio for the existing client base and opened previously
untapped markets.
• Developed relationships instrumental in obtaining preferred vendor status at several printing
equipment manufacturers.
• Leveraged trial order successes to win corporate contracts with multi-plant facilities.
• Partnered with equipment manufacturers, other industry suppliers and customers in the
development of the book: Common Sense Flexography.
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9. Narrow Web Sales Manager - (2003-2004)
• Increased global sales in this product category by over 23% in 2003.
• Increased sales by 27% in 2004.
• Managed marketing communication programs and budget.
• Supported the Accounts Receivable Department in collections efforts, reducing 60+ day
delinquent payments by over $90,000.
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10. Canadian Regional Sales Manager
Technical Manager - (1999-2002)
• Responsible for new account development in Canada, as well as servicing key house
accounts throughout the US.
• Provided field technical sales support to global agent network and client base.
• Managed all marketing communication programs and budget, providing extensive
visibility for existing products and new product introductions.
• Enhanced corporate technical credibility and market visibility through industry
leadership including articles, speeches, and trade association involvement.
• Conducted numerous training seminars and printing process audits across North
America. These audits were directly responsible for nearly $1 million in new sales.
• Researched quality inspection technologies and identified deficiencies in current
equipment leading to installation of new quality verification systems.
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11. Technical Marketing Coordinator- (1992-1999)
• Reversed a five year trend of declining sales through strategic development and tactical
implementation of a multi-facetted marketing program.
• Initiated a comprehensive media placement program, negotiating 54% annual savings off of
media kit advertising rates while attaining premium ad placement and bonus editorial
coverage.
• Reduced production reject rate by over 60% through investigation and resolution of quality
deficiencies and establishment of standard practice criteria.
• Devised concept and design, wrote, edited, and produced photography for a variety of
collateral materials, advertisements, brochures, sell sheets, presentations, a corporate video
and web site.
• Augmented corporate market presence with press releases, committee involvement,
presentations at technical conferences, and publication of several technical articles.
• Developed training programs and materials including the reference manual: “Anilox
Performance” and provided training and technical support to clients, sales and production
staff and agent organizations.
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12. Awards /Recognitions
• Flexo Magazine Author’s Award
• Flexographic Technical Association
President’s Award
• Flexographic Technical Association
Environmental Excellence Award
• 2007-2008 Continental Who’s Who
of Professionals & Executives
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13. Technical Leadership
• Authored:
– The book, Common Sense Flexography.
– Converting Magazine Column, “Common Sense Flexo”.
– Over 2 dozen technical articles.
• Presented at:
– Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association Forums.
– Tag and Label Manufacturer’s Technical Conference.
– Converting Machine Manufacturer’s Exposition.
– National Environmental Health and Safety Conference.
– Waukesha County Technical College, Fox Valley Technical College and Fullerton College.
• Chairman
– Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) Great Lakes Group.
14. • Active Member:
– FTA (Flexographic Technical Association) Membership Committee
– FTA Sustainable Green Printing Committee
– FTA Supplier Leadership Council
– FTA Environmental Excellence Awards judging team
• Contributed to:
– FTA Supplier Leadership Council Strategic Planning Initiative.
– Development of the book, FIRST 4.0
(Flexographic Image Reproduction Standards and Tolerances).
– Development of the book, The Flexo Environment.
– 2 editions of the book, Beginner Flexographer.
– Development of PNEAC (Printers National Environmental Assistance Center) Virtual Flexo
Plant.
– The OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Association) Ergonomic web site.
– EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) document: "Choosing among flexo ink options".
– The In-Plant Environmental Self Assessment vs. 1.0 and 2.0.
– Test roll inspection, documentation and photomicrography in support of early trials of the
Flexo Quality Consortium
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15. Common Sense Flexography
• Description
• Foreword
• Industry Reviews
• University Programs
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16. Description
• The book, Common Sense Flexography, was published by PIA/GATF Press in 2006 as a
technical guide for non-technical people. The book guides printers through the
complexities of the flexo printing process with advice and ideas to improve the
productivity, profitability, safety and sustainability of the printing operation.
• Combining a scientific approach with a sense of humor, CSF highlights the best practices
that make some print shops successful, while helping avoid the mistakes and pitfalls that
decimate the profitability of so many of their counterparts. Written in a conversational
tone, CSF breaks complicated technical jargon down into an easy to understand format.
• CSF features a comprehensive glossary, as well as technical tips provided by numerous
industry experts. The 14 page trouble-shooting guide provides valuable direction in
diagnosing and prevention of print defects and process deficiencies.
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17. Foreword
Among David Lanska’s character flaws is the habit of hiding his intelligence behind his
personality. Many of us know the ever-cheerful David, always ready with an
encouraging word, an endearing anecdote, some good advice offered in his gentle,
respectful manner. He is polite to a fault, and he does not know what cynicism is or
means. Yet behind – and around and throughout – that self-deprecation is a brain and a
mind that strives to figure out how it all works, how anilox rolls and inks and substrates
work, how markets work, how life works. His is a mind that studies, contemplates and
distills. Lucky are we that he takes the time to write it all down.
Years ago I wandered the spiral gallery of the Guggenheim museum in New York City
with a friend who adored modern art. At one point I was heard to mutter, “I could do
this.” He came right back with, “But you didn’t.” The package converting and printing
market is filled with talented people who are amply qualified to write a good book
about common sense in flexography. But they didn’t. David Lanska did.
18. This volume is a journey from the simple to the complex and back again. It explores the
packaging marketplace, the wonders and pitfalls of flexographic print production, the
dances of labor and management, and some intricacies of printing that leave mere
editors dizzy. This exploration is accomplished with facts, opinions, plain English, gravity,
and humor (and poetry!). The author possesses the ability to separate and elevate
common sense – that most uncommon of traits – from much of the detritus that clogs
our occupational plumbing.
No other author anywhere, it must be pointed out, has Melissa Lanska to lean upon.
She who penned the delightful drawings has put smiles on her father’s prose.
Common Sense Flexography is the result of one man’s passion, his love of work and the
joy of his interaction with people who strive to fulfill their goals. But beyond these, this
work is the display of his broad and intricate industry knowledge. Simply put: Readers
will find it useful and valuable. David Lanska has achieved what all authors strive to
achieve: to inform, to educate, and to entertain.
Jack Kenny
Editor, Label & Narrow Web
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19. Industry Reviews
• “It’s no surprise that David’s book is so encompassing, thought-provoking and informative.
He’s well known as one of the FTA’s “turbo members” a person who is always willing to share
his knowledge to help advance the industry. David offers a fresh perspective and provides
new insights that will prove valuable to many flexographers. This comprehensive manuscript
is a “must read” for anyone wishing to better understand anilox roll technology and proper
pressroom practices!”
Mark Cisternino, President - Flexographic Technical Association
• “David covers a tremendous amount of material, from ink to pressroom management and
many points in between, highlighting key concepts such as the construction and maintenance
of anilox rolls, and the role, construction and selection of doctor blades. The images, theory
and formulas related to aniloxes are the most comprehensive I have ever seen, yet they are
concisely presented. I will be mining this book for insight and formulas again and again.
Many of the subtleties of flexo, often learned only through accident or word of mouth, are
examined with humor and lightness that takes some of the edge off of a technical subject.
Frank Burgos, President - www.flexoexchange.com
20. • “The book is a fun and easy read, is relevant to our industry and would allow a diverse
readership with varying experiences to grasp the concepts, components and processes
of our industry for quick understanding.”
Tom Hammer, XSYS Print Solutions
• “David’s knowledge of Flexography jumps from every page. The humor and anecdotal
features make learning fun. Anyone printing with an anilox roll should read this book.
Anyone reading the book comes away with knowledge that makes printing safer and
better. Additionally, understanding and employing the practices given or inferred saves
money.”
Mark van Denend, President - Print Tech Associates
• “The management section is great!”
Jonathon Bourbonniere, Directuer General - Etiquettes Multi-Action
21. • “This book definitely has a handle on what flexography is all about, someone has finally
taken the knowledge it has taken printers years to learn and put it down on paper!
David’s humorous approach to a very technical field helps to create a balance that
makes it effective in all levels of the industry. I intend to put a copy in all departments
of our company so this knowledge is accessible to all! Common Sense Flexography is a
must for any serious pressroom. As important as your densitometer.”
Colin Shannon, Plant Operations - Artcraft Label, Inc.
• “This book gives a strong foundation for building a great print shop. A great reference
for all the basics of flexographic printing. The title of the book says it all about the
content. Easy reading on important information.”
Patrick Wilkinson, Project Engineer - Standard Register Company
22. • “I read the book over the weekend and loved it! The book starts out with the printing
basics, for those who need it, then traverses back and forth over the Flexo printing
industry covering lots of ground from basic to advanced. David ties each section
together nicely in a logical fashion and builds in a proper order. I liked the shaded areas
for the reason that you quickly understand that they are highlights, points of interest,
tips and interesting facts. I also liked the metaphors and analogies as they helped with
understanding abstract and difficult to grasp concepts.
There was just enough humor and puns to keep a technical subject light without
cheesing it up. The graphics and cartoon character were great illustrations making it
easier to understand the technical stuff.
David’s knowledge is apparent in his grasp of the entire industry. His breadth of
industry knowledge comes from his wide range of industry reading he does as is evident
in the various books and articles he quotes from.
Last, the trouble shooting section is well thought out. This makes it worth having a
second copy of the book in the shop so the press people can keep one close to their
work bench when they need it.”
Frank Anthony, Vice President/Operations - Chattanooga Times Free Press
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23. University Programs
Common Sense Flexography is currently used in the Graphic Arts training
programs at:
• Appalachian State University
• Pennsylvania College of Technology
• Mohawk College
• Dunwoody College of Technology
• Central Piedmont Community College
• University College Arteveldehogeschool Library (Belgium)
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24. Presentations
• Career Crossroads Network - 2010
Topic: The secrets to a successful negotiation
• Webinar – 2009
Topic: Anilox roll technology
• Webinar - 2009
Topic: Engineered coatings for zebra mussel fouling
• Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association Forum – 2009
Topic: Secrets of flexo success
• Converting Machine Manufacturer’s Exposition Delegate Luncheon – 2007
Topic: A roadmap to success in package printing and converting
• Flexographic Technical Association Regional Roadshow – 2006 - (Waukesha County Technical College)
Topic: Anilox basics
25. • Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association Forum – 2004
Topic: Reduce make-readies to improve profitability
• ANI Inks Beginner Flexographer Seminar – Sept., 2004 - Fullerton College
Topic: Anilox terminology, technology, care & cleaning
• Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association Forum - 2003
General Session entertainment feature: The Flexo Make-Ready Blues performed live.
(DVD footage of this performance was featured in 2004 at the Russia Screen Printing
Association Technical Conference and at the 2005 FTA Poland Technical Conference.)
• FlexoCan - 2003
“Cyan Brothers” present the Flexo Make-Ready Blues
• National Environmental Health and Safety Conference – 2002
Topic: Safety in the Pressroom
26. • Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute Technical Conference - 2002
Topic: Anilox roll auditing
• Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association Forum - 2001
Topic: The impact of cell depth to opening ratios on print quality
• National Environmental Health and Safety Conference - 2001
Topic: Reducing the environmental impact from a printing operation
• Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association Forum - 1999
Topic: Comparison of YAG vs. CO2 laser technology
• FLEXSYS Training Seminars - 1999 - Fox Valley Technical College
Topic: Basics of anilox roll technology
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28. • “Fighting back” Labels & Labeling, April, 2011.
• “Dynamic new forces in FTA: Regional networking groups hit their stride” Flexo, February,
2011.
• “Keeping control”, Labels & Labeling, December 2010.
• “FTA Great Lakes Group goes on a Lean journey: PCMC tells its story”, Flexo, July 2010.
• “Process perfection: FTA Great Lakes Group examines workflow dynamics”, Flexo, April,
2010.
• “Making waves”, Labels & Labeling April 2010.
• Contributed to Flexography Principles & Practices Volume VI., Flexographic Technical
Association.
• “Penny wise or pound foolish? Avoiding detours on the road to success”, Flexo, April, 2009.
• “Common sense safety”, Corrugated Today, September/October, 2007.
• “Common sense flexo”, Quarterly column in Converting from August 2007 - March, 2010.
• Common Sense Flexography: A User’s Guide to Improved Pressroom Productivity, Printing
Industries of America / Graphic Arts Technical Foundation, Released May, 2007.
• “Safety sonnet”, Flexo, October, 2006.
• Contributing author to Beginner Flexographer Volume X, “Cleaning your rolls” Flexographic
Technical Association, 2006.
29. • “Challenging management philosophy in flexo print shops”, Label & Narrow Web
Industry, November/December, 2005.
• “Get yourself audited: An anilox audit is a key to improved pressroom productivity,”
Flexo Canada, June/July, 2004
• “Cleaning your anilox: Pros and cons of current ink-removal methods”, Flexo, June,
2004. (Also published on the FTA Environmental E Newsletter)..
• “Taking the hocus pocus out of anilox roll specifications”, Labels and Narrowebtech
India, December, 2003.
• “No more anilox hocus pocus,” Featured on the Flexoexchange Electronic Newsletter,
August, 2003.
• “No más fórmulas mágicas con el anilox: Cómo develar los misterios de las
especificaciones de los rodillos”, Conversion (Flexo Español), June 2003.
• “Engineered coatings: A new approach to improved print-shop productivity”, Flexo,
September, 2002
• “Maximize anilox life,” Labels and Labeling International, April / May, 2002.
• Contributing author to The Flexo Environment, Flexographic Technical Association,
2002.
• Contributing author to Beginner Flexographer Volume VIII, “The anilox roll audit”.
Flexographic Technical Association, 2002.
31. EHS Contributions
• NEHS Presentation - Safety in the Pressroom.
(National Environmental Health and Safety Conference)
• NEHS Presentation - Cleaner & Greener Flexo Printing.
• Contributed to the book, The Flexo Environment.
• Contributed to the development of the OSHA Ergonomic Web Site.
(Occupational Safety and Health Association)
• Contributed to the development of the PNEAC Virtual Flexo Plant.
(Printers National Environmental Assistance Center)
• Contributed to the development of the In-Plant Environmental Self Assessment.
• Contributed to the EPA document: “Choosing among flexo ink options”.
(Environmental Protection Agency)
• Routinely serve as FTA Environmental Excellence Awards Judge.
• Member of FTA Sustainability Committee.
• Articles on safety, sustainability, and process efficiency.
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32. Additional Training / Skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Powerpoint & Publisher
• CRM software – ACT! & Goldmine
• Stork Customer Service Excellence®
• ISO Internal Auditor
• Total Quality Management®
• ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations)
• Technical Competencies:
– Quality Assurance
– Thermal Spray Processes
– Flexographic Printing / Process Troubleshooting
– Laser Engraving
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33. References
• Personal and professional references are available on request.
• LinkedIn recommendations can be found at http://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlanska.
• Additional recommendations are featured in the “References” folder in BoxNet files available
for viewing on the LinkedIn profile.
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34. Contact Information
David J. Lanska
4964 Eagle Lane
West Bend, WI 53095
Phone: 262-677-9219
Cell: 262-343-2440
Email: david.lanska@yahoo.com
LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlanska
Blog: http://productivity-central.blogspot.com/
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