This series highlights the diverse backgrounds and leadership styles of Taylor’s top executives, providing valuable lessons and inspiration for the entire organization. This month’s Leader of Taylor is Troy Barnes, Business Unit President, Prime Labels & Packaging.
From the small farming town of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, to leading Taylor’s Prime Labels and Packaging business unit, Troy Barnes has spent nearly 40 years building a career rooted in hard work, humility, and heart.
In this episode, Troy shares how his blue-collar upbringing shaped his relentless work ethic—watching his dad leave for work at 4:30 AM and still show up for every game and event. He reflects on childhood memories of biking across town, playing sports year-round, and working summer jobs like detasseling and rock picking.
Troy’s journey began with a vocational printing class in high school and a part-time job at Carlson Craft while attending MSU. That job turned into a lifelong career, with Troy rising through the ranks from press operator to supervisor, manager, and eventually business unit leader. His story includes pivotal moments like relocating to Florida for an acquisition, launching a greenfield flexible packaging facility, and embracing on-the-job learning with mentors who believed in him.
He also opens up about fatherhood, marriage, and the joy of raising his daughter later in life—emphasizing the importance of family, friendship, and staying grounded.
“I may not be the smartest guy in the room, but I’ll outwork you.”
Join us for this inspiring conversation with a leader who’s never stopped raising his hand, learning, and leading with purpose.
Learn more at: https://www.taylor.com
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