David Robbie Joins International Paper's Board, Enhancing Strategic Direction

International Paper Welcomes David Robbie to its Board of Directors

International Paper, a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has announced the appointment of David Robbie to its Board of Directors, effective February 11, 2025. This strategic move comes shortly after International Paper's acquisition of DS Smith, a decision aimed at establishing a powerful entity within the packaging industry and furthering the company's commitment to sustainable practices.

A Wealth of Experience

With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the corporate world, David Robbie brings significant qualifications to the table. At 61 years of age, he has a robust background in finance and governance. Previously, he served on DS Smith's Board of Directors since 2019, where he held various roles including that of the senior independent director in 2022. His past positions also include chairing multiple committees, such as audit and remuneration.

His governance experience is not limited to DS Smith; he is currently a non-executive director and the audit committee chair of easyJet plc, a well-known British airline. Additionally, his tenure at First Group plc as interim chair and senior independent director provided him with vast insights into transportation industries. He also holds a charitable role as a trustee for Britten Pears Arts, a music and heritage charity in Suffolk, England.

Before entering the boardroom, Robbie accumulated substantial corporate finance experience as Group Finance Director of Rexam PLC from 2005 to 2016. As a qualified chartered accountant from KPMG, he possesses a comprehensive understanding of financial systems and practices that are crucial for steering companies toward profitability.

Strategic Impact

Robbie’s appointment is expected to significantly benefit International Paper as it works to integrate DS Smith's operations following the acquisition. Andy Silvernail, the Chairman and CEO of International Paper, expressed optimism about Robbie's contributions: "His robust financial expertise and international corporate background, combined with his profound knowledge of DS Smith, will enable us to harness the strengths of both organizations for accelerated growth and enhanced customer service worldwide."

The integration aims at consolidating the strengths of both firms while capitalizing on the expanding market potential in North America and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) regions. International Paper's merger with DS Smith focuses on creating a leading entity in sustainable packaging solutions, addressing the growing demand for environmentally friendly products.

About International Paper

Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, International Paper operates on a global scale with more than 65,000 employees across over 30 countries. In 2024, the company reported net sales of $18.6 billion. Now, with the acquisition of DS Smith, it seeks to enhance its position in the market while adhering to principles of sustainability and innovation.

As the Board of Directors now includes 11 members, with 10 classified as independent directors, the company is poised for further strategic initiatives. David Robbie’s extensive experience in finance and governance will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of the packaging industry while contributing towards a more sustainable future for International Paper.

For further details on the developments at International Paper, you can visit their official website at internationalpaper.com.