Serpa names new leader for first time since company’s founding

Serpa, a California-based secondary packaging solutions manufacturer, has named Justin Neece as its new vice president and general manager. Neece replaces company founder Fernando Serpa, who is remaining with the company as its new vice president of technology development.

Neece began his career 12 years ago with Serpa as an intern and went on to hold positions within engineering and operations.

“I joined Serpa straight out of college. I’m all Serpa,” Neece said in a news release. “I’m very excited about our direction and looking forward to continue carrying on the Serpa legacy with the same values established by Fernando.”

Fernando Serpa founded the company in 1985 and has helped guide Neece’s career. Serpa is one of 45 packaging and automation-focused companies of the ProMach family of brands.

“This is an exciting moment for Serpa; this is the first time someone else is in charge of the company since Fernando founded it,” said Aaron Metzler, Serpa director of sales and applications. “Justin’s mechanical background and his level of creativity make him a great fit to lead Serpa forward.”

Neece earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from California State University in 2011.

“Justin is a very honest person. He’s very loyal to the people he works with. He is a good listener and keeps an open mind,” Serpa said. “Justin has a very supportive wife and is a good family man. He is ready to go. … We are in good hands with Justin’s leadership.”