#Finland #Helsinki #UPM-Kymmene #Executive Appointment #Sami Pauni

Leadership Transition at UPM-Kymmene

In a significant shift within the corporate structure of UPM-Kymmene Oyj, Sami Pauni has been appointed as the new Executive Vice President and General Counsel. This pivotal role places him at the heart of the company’s leadership, where he will be a member of the Group Executive Team and report directly to CEO Massimo Reynaudo. Effective from January 24, 2026, Pauni steps into his position at a time when UPM continues to innovate and lead within its industry.

Professional Background

Born in 1974, Sami Pauni brings a wealth of experience to UPM. He previously worked at Huhtamäki Oyj since 2006, where he held various senior positions in legal affairs, sustainability, corporate responsibility, risk management, and intellectual property. Since 2015, he has been part of Huhtamäki's Global Executive Team, most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Sustainability, Corporate Affairs, and Legal. Pauni’s extensive background has equipped him with a diverse skill set that includes a robust understanding of legal frameworks, compliance, and corporate governance, making him a valuable asset in his new role at UPM.

A Warm Welcome

Massimo Reynaudo expressed enthusiasm about Pauni joining UPM, highlighting his deep knowledge and experience in legal and corporate matters. “I warmly welcome Sami to UPM and the Group Executive team. He is a seasoned professional whose broad expertise in legal, compliance, and corporate governance, and relevant industry experience will serve us well,” Reynaudo stated. The shift also marks a transition for Juha Mäkelä, UPM's former Group General Counsel, who has reached retirement age after two decades of dedicated service.

Acknowledging Juha Mäkelä

Juha Mäkelä has been recognized for his outstanding contributions during his tenure. Reynaudo commended him for being a trusted leader known for his sound counsel founded on integrity and business acumen. Mäkelä will continue in his current role until the end of 2025 and will act as a Senior Adviser during the first half of 2026 to ensure a smooth transition for Pauni.

UPM's Mission and Values

UPM, renowned for its renewable material solutions, operates with a commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company seeks to renew products and enhance entire value chains, contributing positively to environmental and social responsibility. By recruiting top talent like Pauni, UPM emphasizes its intent to strengthen its position in the market while adhering to its core values.

With around 15,800 employees worldwide and annual sales approaching €10.3 billion, UPM is well-positioned to maintain its status as a leader in the industry. The company’s performance in sustainability has been acknowledged through various awards, highlighting its dedication to integrating environmentally friendly practices in all facets of its operations.

Conclusion

As UPM-Kymmene prepares for this leadership change, the company is expected to continue its trend of success and innovation under the guidance of Sami Pauni. His arrival signifies not only a renewal within UPM’s executive structure but also a continued commitment to excellence in sustainability and legal governance. The future looks promising for UPM as it strives to deliver renewable solutions, providing essential materials that drive the industry forward. For more information about UPM's initiatives and values, visit upm.com.