International Paper Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

International Paper has 5 executives leading key functions including finance, information technology, human resources, packaging solutions, and Asian operations.

Driven by a commitment to sustainability, International Paper manufactures corrugated packaging, containerboard, pulp, and other renewable fiber products, supporting diverse markets with innovative and recyclable solutions that enhance supply chain efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Leadership Roles at International Paper

  • Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer - Lance Loeffler
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Packaging Solutions (North America) - Mark Nellessen
  • President, IP (Asia) - Thomas Gestrich
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer - John Balboni
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Melissa Flores
  • Lance Loeffler - Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer

    Lance Loeffler, the Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer at International Paper, directs the company's overall financial strategy and operations. This leadership role involves managing capital allocation, financial planning, and investor relations, ensuring fiscal health and driving profitable growth across all business segments. Loeffler oversees the treasury functions, accounting, and financial reporting, providing critical insights that inform executive decision-making and support the company's mission of sustainable fiber-based solutions. By optimizing financial performance, Lance Loeffler directly contributes to International Paper's ability to innovate and expand its market reach in packaging, pulp, and recycling. The Chief Financial Officer's purview extends to risk management and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, safeguarding the company's assets and enhancing shareholder value. This executive's strategic financial guidance is paramount to maintaining operational efficiency and achieving long-term sustainability objectives.
    Lance Loeffler

    Mark Nellessen - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Packaging Solutions (North America)

    Mark Nellessen, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Packaging Solutions (North America) at International Paper, spearheads financial oversight and strategic planning for the company's significant North American packaging operations. This executive manages financial performance, budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis specifically for the containerboard and corrugated packaging segments within the region. Nellessen's role involves ensuring financial discipline and driving efficiency across the packaging value chain, from manufacturing to delivery, supporting the company's commitment to sustainable and recyclable solutions. The Chief Financial Officer for Packaging Solutions collaborates closely with operational leaders to identify growth opportunities and optimize resource allocation, directly impacting market share and revenue generation in key consumer and industrial sectors. By providing targeted financial leadership, Mark Nellessen supports International Paper's strategic objectives for innovation and market leadership in North America.

    Thomas Gestrich - President, IP (Asia)

    Thomas Gestrich, the President, IP (Asia) at International Paper, leads the company's strategic direction and operational execution across the Asian market. This executive is responsible for driving growth, managing regional business units, and expanding International Paper's presence in sustainable fiber-based packaging, pulp, and recycling solutions throughout Asia. Gestrich oversees market development, customer relationships, and the integration of manufacturing and recycling operations within the region, ensuring alignment with global corporate objectives. The President of IP (Asia) plays a critical role in navigating diverse market dynamics and regulatory landscapes, fostering innovation tailored to regional needs. By directing regional strategy, Thomas Gestrich ensures International Paper effectively serves its customers and advances its sustainability goals across this vital global market. This leadership position is key to capitalizing on emerging opportunities and strengthening the company's international footprint.

    John Balboni - Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    John Balboni, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at International Paper, architects the company's global technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. This executive oversees all aspects of information technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data management, ensuring robust and secure systems that support business operations. Balboni's responsibilities include driving innovation in IT solutions to enhance operational efficiency, improve supply chain visibility, and support the development of sustainable fiber-based products. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with other senior leaders to align technology investments with strategic business goals, enabling International Paper to better serve consumer goods, e-commerce, and industrial markets. By leveraging advanced digital capabilities, John Balboni ensures the company remains competitive and responsive to evolving market demands, facilitating seamless integration of manufacturing and recycling operations. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining data integrity and advancing the company's sustainability objectives through technological enablement.

    Melissa Flores - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Melissa Flores, the Chief Human Resources Officer at International Paper, directs the global human capital strategy, fostering a culture of engagement, development, and inclusion. This executive oversees talent acquisition, organizational development, compensation and benefits, and employee relations, ensuring the company attracts and retains top talent essential for its operations. Flores champions initiatives that support employee well-being and professional growth, aligning HR practices with International Paper's mission to produce sustainable fiber-based packaging, pulp, and recycling solutions. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a pivotal role in shaping the employee experience, driving change management, and ensuring compliance with labor laws across diverse operating regions. By cultivating a skilled and motivated workforce, Melissa Flores directly contributes to the company's operational excellence and its ability to innovate within the packaging and paper industries. This leadership function is vital for supporting the company's integrated manufacturing and recycling efforts.
    Melissa Flores

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding International Paper Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads International Paper?
    International Paper is led by Lance Loeffler (Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mark Nellessen (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Packaging Solutions (North America)) and Thomas Gestrich (President, IP (Asia)).
    Who is part of International Paper’s executive team?
    The executive team of International Paper includes leaders such as Lance Loeffler (Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer), Mark Nellessen (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Packaging Solutions (North America)), Thomas Gestrich (President, IP (Asia)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does International Paper have?
    International Paper has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in International Paper’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of International Paper includes roles such as Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Packaging Solutions (North America), President, IP (Asia), Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.