International Paper Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

International Paper has 5 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, human capital, information technology, labor relations, and regional operations.

Focused on sustainable fiber-based packaging, International Paper delivers renewable solutions that enhance supply chain efficiency and advance global sustainability goals across diverse industrial and commercial markets.

Leadership Roles at International Paper

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

    Mark Nellessen, the Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America) at International Paper, directs all financial planning and fiscal strategy for the North American packaging division. Overseeing capital allocation and cost management, the Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America) ensures the division maintains high profitability while supporting large-scale manufacturing operations. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends in corrugated packaging to optimize resource distribution across regional facilities. By aligning financial performance with sustainability targets, Mark Nellessen drives long-term value for shareholders and customers alike. Nellessen manages complex budgetary frameworks that support the production of renewable fiber products, ensuring the business remains competitive within the North American market. Through rigorous financial oversight, the executive secures the necessary capital to innovate packaging solutions that meet evolving e-commerce demands and industrial requirements.
    Mark Nellessen

    Paul Shaffer - President of USW Local 4-0005

    Paul Shaffer, the President of USW Local 4-0005 at International Paper, directs labor relations and represents the interests of the workforce within the manufacturing sector. Overseeing collective bargaining and workplace safety initiatives, the President of USW Local 4-0005 ensures alignment between operational requirements and employee welfare. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between management and the workforce to maintain stable production environments for corrugated packaging and pulp products. By advocating for fair labor practices, Paul Shaffer contributes to the overall efficiency and morale of the manufacturing teams. Shaffer manages the resolution of workplace grievances and promotes a culture of safety that supports the company's broader sustainability and production goals. Through consistent engagement with union members, the executive ensures that the workforce remains focused on high-quality output. The President of USW Local 4-0005 drives collaborative efforts that sustain the company's industrial presence and operational continuity.
    Paul Shaffer

    Thomas Gestrich - President, IP (Asia)

    Thomas Gestrich, the President, IP (Asia) at International Paper, directs all business operations and market expansion strategies throughout the Asian region. Overseeing the production and distribution of sustainable fiber-based packaging, the President, IP (Asia) ensures the company meets the growing demand for renewable products in diverse consumer and industrial markets. This leadership role involves navigating complex regional regulatory environments and building strategic partnerships to enhance market share. By optimizing local manufacturing capabilities, Thomas Gestrich drives operational excellence and supply chain efficiency across the Asian footprint. Gestrich manages the alignment of regional activities with the company's global sustainability mission, ensuring consistent quality and innovation. Through the execution of targeted growth initiatives, the executive strengthens the company's competitive position in the region. The President, IP (Asia) secures the necessary resources to scale operations and deliver high-performance packaging solutions that support the evolving needs of Asian e-commerce and commercial sectors.

    Melissa Flores - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Melissa Flores, the Chief Human Resources Officer at International Paper, directs global talent acquisition, organizational development, and employee engagement strategies. Overseeing the workforce architecture, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the company attracts and retains top-tier talent capable of advancing sustainable fiber-based packaging innovations. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs that align with the company's commitment to safety and operational excellence. By fostering an inclusive culture, Melissa Flores strengthens the organizational foundation required to support global manufacturing and recycling operations. Flores manages the integration of human capital strategies across diverse international regions, ensuring consistent performance standards. Through the implementation of modern performance management systems, the executive drives productivity and professional growth. Ultimately, the Chief Human Resources Officer secures the human potential necessary to maintain market leadership in the renewable fiber industry while upholding the highest standards of corporate responsibility.
    Melissa Flores

    John Balboni - Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    John Balboni, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at International Paper, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure supporting global manufacturing operations. Overseeing cybersecurity, data analytics, and enterprise software systems, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity across the company's vast network of pulp and packaging facilities. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that enhance supply chain visibility and operational efficiency. By leveraging advanced data insights, John Balboni optimizes production workflows and improves the delivery of recyclable packaging solutions to industrial clients. Balboni manages the integration of emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge in the global fiber market. Through strategic investment in digital tools, the executive supports the company's sustainability goals by reducing waste and improving resource management. The Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer drives the technological evolution required to sustain long-term growth and operational resilience.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding International Paper Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads International Paper?
    International Paper is led by Mark Nellessen (Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America)), along with executives such as Paul Shaffer (President of USW Local 4-0005) 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 Mark Nellessen (Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America)), Paul Shaffer (President of USW Local 4-0005), 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 Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America), President of USW Local 4-0005, President, IP (Asia), Chief Human Resources Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer.