Tuija Suur-Hamari Joins UPM Plywood as Executive Vice President Driving Strategic Growth
In a significant move for UPM Plywood, Tuija Suur-Hamari has been appointed as the new Executive Vice President. This announcement, made on April 17, 2025, marks a pivotal change in the company’s leadership, as Suur-Hamari brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She will be part of UPM's Group Executive Team and will report directly to the President and CEO, Massimo Reynaudo, assuming her responsibilities by November 1, 2025.
Born in 1969, Tuija Suur-Hamari has an impressive educational background, holding a Master's degree in Engineering from the Helsinki University of Technology. She joins UPM from Wihuri Oy, where she served as Managing Director of Wipak Oy and Wipak Health since 2016. Her leadership skills have been evident in her previous role as the CEO of Kotkamills Oy, underscoring her capability to steer companies through strategic transformations, especially in packaging and renewable materials sectors.
"We are thrilled to welcome Tuija to our team," says Massimo Reynaudo, reflecting on her extensive leadership record. Her appointment comes at a crucial time for UPM as the company aims to further enhance its presence and strengthen operations in the plywood market.
Suur-Hamari succeeds Susanna Rinne, who has been serving as the interim Executive Vice President while also managing the Sales and Customer Experience division. Reynaudo praised Rinne for her instrumental role during this transition, noting her deep experience in the plywood industry, which has helped maintain a strong focus on consumer needs.
With UPM's commitment to growth and sustainability, Tuija Suur-Hamari’s addition to the executive team signals a strategic alignment toward these goals. UPM Plywood is part of UPM-Kymmene Corporation, a significant player in the forest products industry known for its innovative renewable solutions. The company employs approximately 15,800 people globally, highlighting its extensive reach and influence.
As UPM continues to carve out a sustainable future with solutions focused on renewable materials, Tuija Suur-Hamari's role is expected to be pivotal in pushing these initiatives forward. Her leadership is anticipated to guide UPM Plywood through its next chapter, driving both innovation and growth.
She will be based in Helsinki, Finland, where UPM's headquarters are located, bringing her strategic insights and leadership to a key market for the company. The appointment is seen as a part of UPM's broader strategy to align its leadership with its operational goals, ensuring a cohesive approach to challenges and opportunities in the industry.
In summary, Tuija Suur-Hamari’s extensive experience and proven leadership track record make her an ideal candidate to lead UPM Plywood as it navigates the complexities of modern forestry and materials management. Her focus on growth and strategic development aligns perfectly with the company’s vision for the future, allowing it to push boundaries in sustainability and innovation.