Doug Schwartz has extensive experience in the U.S. forest and paper industry, including serving in key leadership roles at companies such as Sonoco Products Company (Sonoco), International Paper and Champion International Corporation. He most recently held the position of Vice President and General Manager, Rigid Paper Containers at Sonoco.

"I am very happy that Doug, with his proven track record, will now lead our North America operations, which are integral to Billerud's business and growth strategy. Together with our competent American team, he will continue our commitment to serve our customers by delivering our core products--graphic paper, specialty papers, and pulp, as well as cartonboard and other packaging materials. At the same time, he will lead the team in identifying strategic product development initiatives to diversify and expand our product portfolio," says Ivar Vatne, Billerud CEO and President.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to join Billerud North America as President. With an industry experience of more than three decades - and a strong team in place - I hope to bring new perspectives that build upon the strong foundation already established and capture new opportunities to achieve sustainable and profitable growth," says Doug Schwartz, incoming President Billerud North America.