FINLAND – UPM has announced the appointment of Mika Kekki as Executive Vice President of UPM Specialty Papers, effective January 1, 2025.

Kekki, who has been with UPM since 1994, currently serves as Executive Vice President of UPM Plywood, a position he will maintain until the end of 2024.

He will also continue his role on UPM’s Group Executive Team.

“Mika has successfully led our UPM Plywood business, advancing productivity, profitability, and innovation,” said Massimo Reynaudo, UPM’s CEO.

“Earlier this year, he led UPM Communication Papers through a leadership transition, showcasing his initiative and commitment to continuous improvement.”

Kekki will succeed Jaakko Nikkilä, who has opted to pursue opportunities outside UPM.

“Jaakko has significantly contributed to UPM’s growth, particularly in transforming our Specialty Paper business into a global leader with a strong foothold in Asia,” added Reynaudo. UPM has initiated a search for Kekki’s successor in the UPM Plywood division.

Cascades implements strategic organizational changes

Cascades Inc. has announced key organizational shifts, effective November 11, designed to enhance growth, improve operational agility, and accelerate decision-making across the company.

A major component of this restructuring merges Cascades’ containerboard and specialty products (SPG) activities into a single operational unit, leveraging Containerboard Packaging’s extensive network with SPG’s innovative potential.

Jean-David Tardif, President and Chief Operating Officer of Cascades’ Tissue group, will step into the new role of Executive Vice President of Packaging.

Tardif, who holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and an MBA, joined Cascades in 1997 and has held leadership roles across the company’s business groups, including Tissue and Containerboard Packaging.

Charles Malo, current President and COO of Containerboard Packaging, will assist Tardif during the transition, after which he will step down to pursue personal projects.

Cascades also announced the appointment of Jérôme Porlier as Executive Vice President of tissue. Porlier, currently President and COO of the Specialty Products group, joined Cascades in 2012 and brings extensive experience from leadership roles in both the Tissue and Specialty Products divisions.

Additionally, Emmanuelle Migneault, currently Vice President of Human Resources for the Tissue group, has been named Vice President of excellence.

Her role will focus on enhancing collaboration and driving value-creating opportunities across Cascades. Migneault has been with the Cascades since 2001, contributing to the Tissue group’s recent turnaround and leading human resources strategies.

Founded in 1964, Cascades Inc. provides sustainable, innovative packaging, hygiene, and recovery solutions across North America and Europe.

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