Leadership Changes at Global Cellulose Fibers: Mike Doss Takes the Helm as CEO in 2026
Leadership Changes at Global Cellulose Fibers
In a significant move for the future of Global Cellulose Fibers (GCF), the company has officially announced the appointment of Mike Doss as their new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 23, 2026. This comes as a part of a strategic leadership transition, which sees Clay Ellis stepping down from the CEO role to assume the position of Board Advisor.
Clay Ellis expressed his pride in having worked closely with the GCF team throughout an important period in the company's history. He emphasized the successful establishment of GCF as an independent entity and reflected on their commitment to delivering safety, quality, and reliability to their customers. As he transitions to his new role, Ellis will continue to support Doss and the GCF team through the next phase of development in their journey as an independent business.
Mike Doss, now appointed CEO, shared his enthusiasm regarding this new opportunity. He noted, "I am honored to join GCF and excited to partner with this talented team. GCF’s mill system provides an exceptional level of security in supply and quality for its global absorbent customers, and I look forward to building on that foundation through innovation and a focus on biomaterials expansion."
Doss’s immediate objectives include listening and learning from the current team, as well as developing long-term strategies to enhance value creation and finalize comprehensive plans for the newly independent GCF. This approach highlights Doss's collaborative leadership style and his commitment to team engagement in driving sustainable growth.
Anne McEntee, Board Director at GCF, remarked on the importance of this leadership transition, noting that it positions the company for forwarding momentum in its operational and strategic agenda. She acknowledged Clay's contributions to the company and expressed eagerness to work with Mike and the GCF leadership team to propel the business forward.
The transition of leadership is symbolic of GCF's evolution as an independent company, with a strong focus on continuing to serve customers globally while underscoring a steadfast commitment to safety, quality, and reliability. Under Doss's leadership, GCF aims to further develop its biomaterials expertise, reinforcing the company’s position in the industry.
GCF has a formidable presence in the market, running seven pulp mills and two converting facilities. Their operations are centered on producing fluff pulp, paper grade pulp, and specialty pulp products for a diverse array of consumer applications, most notably in hygiene products such as diapers and tissue paper. The company reported annual revenues of approximately $2.5 billion in 2025 and employs around 3,300 individuals across eight countries.
This leadership change illustrates GCF’s strategic planning as it seeks to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving market landscape, ensuring they remain competitive in the biomaterials sector. As Mike Doss steps into his role, supporters and stakeholders of GCF eagerly await the developments that will unfold under his direction, building on the solid groundwork laid by his predecessor, Clay Ellis.