Billerud Appoints Doug Schwartz as President Billerud North America

Sept. 16, 2024 - Billerud has appointed Doug Schwartz as President Billerud North America and member of the company's Group Management Team, effective 30 September.

Schwartz replaces Kevin Kuznicki, who left the company in June to pursue other ventures.

Schwartz has extensive experience in the U.S. forest and paper industry, including serving in key leadership roles at companies such as Sonoco Products Company (Sonoco), International Paper and Champion International Corporation. He most recently held the position of Vice President and General Manager, Rigid Paper Containers at Sonoco.

"I am very happy that Doug, with his proven track record, will now lead our North America operations, which are integral to Billerud's business and growth strategy," said Ivar Vatne, Billerud's CEO and President.

"Together with our competent American team, he will continue our commitment to serve our customers by delivering our core products — graphic paper, specialty papers, and pulp, as well as cartonboard and other packaging materials. At the same time, he will lead the team in identifying strategic product development initiatives to diversify and expand our product portfolio," Vatne added.

Schwartz commented, "I am honored to have the opportunity to join Billerud North America as President. With an industry experience of more than three decades - and a strong team in place - I hope to bring new perspectives that build upon the strong foundation already established and capture new opportunities to achieve sustainable and profitable growth."

Billerud's North American operation (formerly Verso Corporation) is headquartered in Miamisburg, Ohio, and operates paper mills in Escanaba and Quinnesec, Michigan, and a roll to sheet converting facility in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.

SOURCE: Billerud