International Paper Welcomes Joy Roman as Chief People and Strategy Officer

International Paper, a key player in the global market for sustainable packaging and fiber-based products, has taken a significant step forward by appointing Joy Roman to the newly created position of Senior Vice President and Chief People and Strategy Officer. Announced on January 22, 2025, the decision came from the company's Board of Directors and will be effective starting February 1, 2025.

Joy Roman brings a wealth of experience to this pivotal role, where she will spearhead the organization's efforts in talent development, organizational effectiveness, and corporate strategy. Her ultimate goal will be to align the company’s workforce with its strategic objectives, thereby fostering a vibrant performance culture aimed at driving growth and excellence. Additionally, she will oversee the company's Sustainability and Communications initiatives, highlighting International Paper’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Her previous experience includes a successful tenure at Berry Global, where she served as Chief People and Strategy Officer. There, she developed and implemented strategies that significantly impacted employee engagement and organizational growth. Prior to that, Roman was a management consultant at McKinsey & Company, where she honed her strategic capabilities. Her decade-long stint at 3M saw her take on progressively responsible roles in both strategy and human resources, culminating in her role as the Chief Human Resources Officer at Toll Brothers and the De Beers Group.

The appointment of Roman has been met with optimism from the company's leadership. Andy Silvernail, Chairman and CEO of International Paper, expressed confidence in her capabilities, stating that her distinct balance of human resources and strategic insight would be invaluable as the company strives to create a thriving workplace and deliver exceptional service to their customers. He emphasized that for International Paper, embedding a culture of excellence is paramount for profitable growth and shareholder satisfaction.

Roman holds a Master of Business Administration from the esteemed Yale School of Management, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in English and Communications from the University of Wisconsin. Her diverse educational background complements her professional achievements, showcasing her ability to contribute strategically to International Paper’s mission.

As the world's largest recycler, International Paper is dedicated to sustainable practices and innovation in packaging solutions, pulp production, and other fiber-based products. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company employs approximately 39,000 individuals across its global operations and generated net sales of $18.9 billion in 2023. The addition of Roman to the executive team signals a strong commitment to enhancing its human capital and ensuring that the workforce remains aligned with the company's strategic vision, further reinforcing International Paper's position as an industry leader.

In summary, Joy Roman’s appointment not only represents a strategic advancement for International Paper but also reinforces the company's aim to intertwine human resource practices with overarching business strategies. This synergy is expected to yield significant benefits for employees, customers, and shareholders alike, ultimately driving the company towards continued growth and success in a competitive marketplace.