Leadership shifts in packaging and materials sector signal strategic vision for growth and sustainability

FINLAND – Metsä Group has officially welcomed Jussi Vanhanen as its new President and CEO, effective 1 July 2025, succeeding Ilkka Hämälä, who retires after years of transformative leadership.

Vanhanen brings a wealth of international executive experience, particularly within the forest and fiber-based materials sectors.

His appointment is expected to strengthen Metsä Group’s position as a frontrunner in sustainable wood-based products and bioeconomy innovation.

Under Hämälä, Metsä made major strides in circular economy practices and green investments, including new bioproduct mills and efforts in fossil-free production.

Vanhanen is anticipated to build on this momentum by deepening the company’s global market reach and reinforcing its commitment to climate-smart forestry.

Vinzenz Heindl appointed Chief Sales Officer at Progroup AG

Meanwhile, in Germany, Vinzenz Heindl will join the Board of Directors of Progroup AG as Chief Sales Officer starting 1 August 2025.

Known for his strategic insight and leadership in knowledge-driven development, Heindl previously served as Managing Director of Professionals Academy SPO GmbH, where he fostered sustainable initiatives tailored to family-owned enterprises in the paper and packaging sectors.

Progroup, a leader in containerboard and corrugated sheetboard production, is poised to leverage Heindl’s expertise to further strengthen customer engagement, accelerate innovation in fiber-based packaging, and deepen its environmental credentials.

His appointment underscores the company’s focus on holistic business transformation across Central Europe.

Dean Butler elected President of British Glass

In the UK, industry body British Glass has named Dean Butler, UK Business Development Director at Ardagh Group, as its new President.

Succeeding Thomas Riss, CEO of Stoelzle Flaconnage, Butler steps into the role with over two decades of experience in the glass packaging industry.

His two-year tenure will focus on navigating the sector through energy, recycling, and policy challenges, while promoting glass as a sustainable, infinitely recyclable material.

“It’s an exciting time for the glass industry,” said Butler. “I look forward to driving innovation and championing glass as a key player in a sustainable future.”

British Glass CEO Dave Dalton praised Butler’s “passion and strategic insight,” calling him the ideal leader to guide the industry during this critical period.

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