UPM-Kymmene has unveiled a series of new appointments and changes to its board of directors, including the election of Vesa Vainio as chairman.


After the groups AGM last week, present chairman Tauno Matomki said he wished to retire. As a result of the changes the number of board members has now been reduced from 11 to 10.


Jyri Viitala, financial controller of printing papers finance, is leaving the company to join a sponsorship and media company, but declined to comment on the reasons for his departure.


From 1 April Viitalas duties will transfer to Heinz-Hermann Behrens, who has been made financial controller of the fine paper arm.


Two new members Canadian lawyer Donna Kaufman and UK-based Michael Bottenheim, former managing director of Lazard Brothers have also been elected to the board.


Martti Ahtisaari, former President of the Republic of Finland, has also been elected to the board, along with Juha Niemel, president and CEO of UPM-Kymmene Corporation.


Gustaf Serlachius retains his position as vice chairman, while Carl H Amon III replaces Jouko K Leskinen.


Story by Andy Scott