HELSINKI (News release) -- Jari Suominen, Executive Vice President (EVP), Forest division and a member of the Group Leadership Team, has decided to leave Stora Enso. After more than 25 years with the Company, Jari will now pursue career opportunities outside of Stora Enso. Per Lyrvall, currently EVP Legal, has been appointed as new EVP Forest division. Per will assume the role beginning of December and continue as a member of the Group Leadership Team (GLT).

Jari Suominen joined Stora Enso in 1995 and has led the Company's Forest division since its inception in 2020. Previous to that, Jari was EVP and head of Stora Enso's Wood Products division since 2014.

"I would like to thank Jari for all his contributions in Stora Enso throughout the years, it has been a true pleasure working together. Jari has driven transformation in the Wood Products division setting up our Building Solutions business, and now lately established the new Forest Division. On behalf of all colleagues, I would like to wish him success and good luck in his future endeavours," says Stora Enso's President and CEO Annica Bresky.

"After a long and rewarding career at Stora Enso it's now time for me to take the next step. I am very grateful for the opportunities that I have had in the company and of course all the fantastic colleagues that I have been fortunate enough to work with over the years," says Jari Suominen.

Per Lyrvall joined the company in 1994 and has been a member of the GLT since 2012 and General Counsel since 2008. Per will continue his current responsibilities as Stora Enso country head in Sweden in addition to the new role as head of the Forest division.

"I am excited to take on the opportunity to lead the Forest division. Our forest assets and operations are at the very foundation of our growth platform. I look forward to continuing Jari Suominen's work to advance our forestry operations with focus on sustainability, biodiversity and wood supply services that support Stora Enso's strategic ambitions," says Per Lyrvall.

The search for a new General Counsel has been initiated. In the interim period Christian Swartling, currently Senior Vice President Group Legal, will assume the acting role in the position.