International Paper Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

International Paper has 8 executives leading key functions including human resources, information technology, finance, operations, and regional leadership.

Driven by a legacy of innovation, International Paper is dedicated to manufacturing essential products that improve lives, focusing on sustainable practices and delivering value across the paper, packaging, and wood products industries.

Leadership Roles at International Paper

  • Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer - Lance Loeffler
  • President - Kate Pery
  • President of USW Local 4-0005 - Paul Shaffer
  • President, IP (Asia) - Thomas Gestrich
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Melissa Flores
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer - John Balboni
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Michael Anderson
  • Chief Operations Officer - Andrew Amollo
  • Lance Loeffler - Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer

    Lance Loeffler, the Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer at International Paper, directs the company's financial planning, capital allocation, and investor relations. Loeffler oversees all aspects of financial operations, including accounting, treasury, and risk management, ensuring fiscal discipline and strategic investment to support International Paper's growth objectives in paper, packaging, and wood products. This executive position involves managing the company's financial health, optimizing profitability, and driving shareholder value through sound financial strategies and transparent reporting. By leading the finance division, Lance Loeffler provides critical insights into market trends and economic conditions, guiding executive decisions on mergers, acquisitions, and operational investments. The Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer's expertise is fundamental to maintaining International Paper's financial stability and enabling its expansion into new markets and product lines.
    Lance Loeffler

    Kate Pery - President

    Kate Pery, the President at International Paper, holds a broad executive mandate overseeing significant business segments and strategic growth initiatives. Pery directs key operational and commercial functions, driving performance and market expansion for the company's core product lines, including paper, packaging, and wood products. This senior leadership role involves fostering cross-functional collaboration, identifying new market opportunities, and ensuring that International Paper's strategic objectives are met with agility and precision. By leading major divisions, Kate Pery contributes to the overall direction and success of the company, focusing on innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable business practices. The President's leadership is instrumental in navigating the dynamic global marketplace and reinforcing International Paper's position as an industry leader.

    Paul Shaffer - President of USW Local 4-0005

    Paul Shaffer, the President of USW Local 4-0005 at International Paper, represents the interests of unionized employees within specific operational units. Shaffer advocates for fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and equitable compensation for the workforce, fostering a collaborative relationship between labor and management. This role involves engaging in collective bargaining, addressing employee grievances, and ensuring compliance with labor agreements that impact the manufacturing of paper, packaging, and wood products. By serving as a key liaison, Paul Shaffer contributes to a stable and productive work environment, supporting the operational continuity and employee morale at International Paper facilities. The President of USW Local 4-0005's dedication to employee welfare is vital for maintaining harmonious industrial relations and supporting the company's overall mission.

    Thomas Gestrich - President, IP (Asia)

    Thomas Gestrich, the President, IP (Asia) at International Paper, directs the company's strategic operations and market development across the Asian region. Gestrich oversees the expansion and management of International Paper's business interests in paper, packaging, and wood products throughout Asia, adapting strategies to meet diverse regional demands and regulatory landscapes. This executive role involves cultivating key partnerships, driving sales growth, and ensuring operational excellence within the Asian market. By leading the company's presence in Asia, Thomas Gestrich plays a critical part in International Paper's global growth strategy, focusing on market penetration and sustainable business practices. The President, IP (Asia)'s leadership is essential for navigating the complexities of the Asian market and maximizing the company's regional performance.

    Melissa Flores - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Melissa Flores, the Chief Human Resources Officer at International Paper, directs global talent management and organizational development. Flores oversees the strategic implementation of HR policies, ensuring alignment with the company's operational goals and fostering a culture of employee engagement and continuous improvement across all business units. This leadership role involves shaping the employee experience, from recruitment and retention to professional growth and compensation strategies, directly impacting International Paper's ability to attract and maintain a skilled workforce. By championing initiatives that support diversity, equity, and inclusion, Melissa Flores drives the development of a robust human capital framework essential for sustained business success and operational excellence. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that International Paper's workforce is equipped to meet evolving market demands and contribute to the company's long-term vision.
    Melissa Flores

    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. Balboni directs the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and data management systems that support International Paper's manufacturing and packaging operations. This critical role involves ensuring the seamless integration of technology across all departments, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving innovation through digital solutions. By overseeing the IT department, John Balboni ensures that the company's technological resources are optimized to support business objectives, improve supply chain visibility, and enhance customer engagement. The Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer's leadership is pivotal in maintaining a secure and agile technological environment, enabling International Paper to adapt to industry changes and capitalize on new opportunities.

    Michael Anderson - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Michael Anderson, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at International Paper, collaborates with the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer to execute the company's overarching technology vision. Anderson focuses on specific areas of IT infrastructure and application development, ensuring operational systems support the manufacturing and distribution of paper, packaging, and wood products. This role involves managing key technology projects, enhancing system reliability, and driving the adoption of digital tools that improve efficiency and productivity across International Paper's global operations. By working closely with business units, Michael Anderson ensures that technology solutions directly address operational challenges and support strategic initiatives. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer's contributions are vital to maintaining a secure, scalable, and innovative technology environment that underpins International Paper's market leadership.

    Andrew Amollo - Chief Operations Officer

    Andrew Amollo, the Chief Operations Officer at International Paper, directs the company's global manufacturing and supply chain operations, ensuring efficiency and quality across all production facilities. Amollo oversees the strategic planning and execution of operational processes for paper, packaging, and wood products, focusing on optimizing resource utilization, enhancing productivity, and maintaining stringent safety standards. This leadership position involves managing complex logistical networks, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring the reliable delivery of products to customers worldwide. By leading the operations division, Andrew Amollo plays a crucial role in cost management, operational excellence, and the sustainable production of International Paper's diverse product portfolio. The Chief Operations Officer's oversight is essential for maintaining International Paper's competitive edge and its commitment to delivering high-quality products.

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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 Kate Pery (President) and Paul Shaffer (President of USW Local 4-0005).
    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), Kate Pery (President), Paul Shaffer (President of USW Local 4-0005) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does International Paper have?
    International Paper has 8 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, President, President of USW Local 4-0005, President, IP (Asia), Chief Human Resources Officer.