Julie Howard Takes the Helm of Georgia-Pacific's Gypsum Division in Strategic Leadership Move
In a significant move for its Gypsum division, Georgia-Pacific has announced the appointment of Julie Howard as its president. This change comes as a response to the company's commitment to excellence in building products and a drive for transformative growth. Previously, Julie served as vice president and general manager of GP PRO Towels and Napkins, where she significantly contributed to product innovation and market expansion.
With 18 years at Georgia-Pacific under her belt, Julie's experience spans various roles within the company, primarily focusing on paper products in the away-from-home market. Her journey at Georgia-Pacific began in 2007, taking on the role of senior category manager for foodservice disposable products. Her leadership has been marked by a persistent dedication to talent development and market insight, positioning her as a key player in the organization.
The Gypsum division employs over 3,000 individuals across 12 manufacturing locations in the United States, and Julie will now oversee the production of approximately five billion square feet of gypsum panels annually. This division plays a critical role in Georgia-Pacific’s overall operations, contributing significantly to the infrastructure and construction markets.
David Neal, the executive vice president of Building Products, expressed enthusiasm about the changes in leadership, emphasizing Julie's invaluable experience and principled leadership. "Her ability to develop talent and her keen market insights are crucial as we aim to enhance our operations and grow commercially," said Neal.
Moreover, Julie's extensive background includes collaborations with international firms, enriching her perspective on global business strategies. Before her tenure at Georgia-Pacific, she gained experience working with Arch Chemicals and was involved with companies like gatc LP and DRÄXLMAIER Automotive, where she honed her skills in a competitive market environment.
Expressing her excitement for the new role, Julie stated, "I feel incredibly fortunate to work for a company that genuinely promotes contribution-driven individuals and recognizes talent. I am eager to contribute to the growth and development of our team in this new capacity."
Julie graduated from Ohio University, majoring in German and International Studies, and furthered her education by earning an MBA from Georgia State University with a focus on Marketing and International Business. Residing in metro Atlanta with her family, she is also actively involved in community service through Habitat for Humanity.
Georgia-Pacific stands as a leading manufacturer and supplier in the paper products industry, known for its well-established consumer brands such as Angel Soft®, Brawny®, and Dixie®. Additionally, the company is a key supplier in the building products sector, offering a wide range of materials to construction and building material dealers.
Through this leadership transition, Georgia-Pacific is poised to enhance its operational capabilities, ensuring the Gypsum business continues to thrive and adapt to the evolving industry landscape. As Julie Howard steps into her new role, the industry watches closely, anticipating the impact of her leadership on the company’s future endeavors in building solutions. For more updates on Georgia-Pacific's initiatives and innovations, visit their official website or follow them on their social media platforms.