MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- International Paper Company announced the election of Christopher M. Connor to its board of directors effective October 1, 2017.

Connor, age 61, retired as Executive Chairman of The Sherwin-Williams Company in December of 2016. Mr. Connor joined The Sherwin Williams Company in 1983 and served as its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from 2000 to December 2015.

Connor is Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, and serves on the board of directors for both Eaton Corporation plc. and Yum! Brands, Inc. He will be assigned to join the Board's Audit and Finance Committee and Management Development and Compensation Committee.

"Chris has deep knowledge of global manufacturing and commercial operations, as well as his outstanding record of leadership making him an ideal fit for the International Paper Board of Directors," said Mark Sutton, Chairman and CEO. "We are extremely pleased to have him join our board."

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