International Paper Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

International Paper has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, information technology, human resources, labor relations, and regional operations.

Focused on sustainable fiber-based packaging, International Paper advances global recycling solutions while optimizing supply chain efficiency for industrial and commercial markets through renewable product innovation.

Leadership Roles at International Paper

  • Chief Executive Officer - César de Souza
  • Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America) - Mark Nellessen
  • Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer - Lance Loeffler
  • President of USW Local 4-0005 - Paul Shaffer
  • President, IP (Asia) - Thomas Gestrich
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer - John Balboni
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Melissa Flores
  • Rh - Gislaine Veronez
  • César de Souza - Chief Executive Officer

    César de Souza, the Chief Executive Officer at International Paper, directs the global strategy for sustainable fiber-based packaging and pulp production. Overseeing the entire manufacturing footprint, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between renewable product innovation and the evolving needs of e-commerce and industrial markets. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to drive long-term growth and operational excellence across all business units. By prioritizing circular economy principles, César de Souza strengthens the market position of the organization within the global packaging sector. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a sharp focus on enhancing supply chain efficiency, ensuring that the company delivers high-quality, recyclable solutions to a diverse client base. Through rigorous oversight of capital allocation and strategic initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the enterprise as a leader in renewable fiber products.

    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, manages the financial health and operational performance of the North American packaging division. Overseeing regional fiscal planning, the Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America) ensures that manufacturing investments align with the broader corporate sustainability goals. This role involves analyzing market trends in containerboard and corrugated packaging to optimize profitability across the continent. By implementing robust financial controls, Mark Nellessen supports the expansion of recycling operations and the development of innovative fiber-based solutions. The Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America) works closely with regional leadership to improve cost structures and enhance service delivery for industrial clients. Through disciplined resource management, the Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America) drives consistent value creation within the North American market.
    Mark Nellessen

    Lance Loeffler - Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer

    Lance Loeffler, the Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer at International Paper, directs the global financial strategy and capital structure of the organization. Overseeing enterprise-wide fiscal reporting and investor relations, the Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer ensures transparency and long-term financial stability. This leadership role involves managing the balance sheet to support large-scale investments in sustainable packaging and pulp manufacturing. By optimizing capital allocation, Lance Loeffler enables the company to pursue growth opportunities in renewable fiber markets. The Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to mitigate financial risks and improve operational efficiency across all global manufacturing sites. Through strategic financial planning, the Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer maintains the fiscal integrity required to advance the company's mission of providing innovative, recyclable packaging solutions to a global customer base.
    Lance Loeffler

    Paul Shaffer - President of USW Local 4-0005

    Paul Shaffer, the President of USW Local 4-0005 at International Paper, represents the interests of the workforce within the manufacturing facilities. Overseeing labor relations and collective bargaining, the President of USW Local 4-0005 ensures that operational practices align with safety standards and contractual agreements. This role involves facilitating communication between the production teams and management to maintain high levels of productivity in the creation of containerboard and pulp products. By advocating for the needs of the employees, Paul Shaffer contributes to the stability and efficiency of the manufacturing process. The President of USW Local 4-0005 works to resolve workplace issues, ensuring that the production environment remains conducive to meeting the company's sustainability and output goals. Through active engagement with the workforce, the President of USW Local 4-0005 supports the overall operational success of the facility.
    Paul Shaffer

    Thomas Gestrich - President, IP (Asia)

    Thomas Gestrich, the President, IP (Asia) at International Paper, directs the strategic expansion and operational performance of the company across Asian markets. Overseeing the manufacturing and distribution of fiber-based packaging and pulp, the President, IP (Asia) ensures that regional operations meet the specific needs of the growing e-commerce and consumer goods sectors. This role involves navigating complex market dynamics to increase the footprint of sustainable packaging solutions in the region. By optimizing the supply chain and local production capabilities, Thomas Gestrich drives revenue growth and market penetration. The President, IP (Asia) works with the global executive team to align regional initiatives with the overarching corporate mission of sustainability and innovation. Through the effective management of regional assets, the President, IP (Asia) secures a strong competitive position for the company within the diverse and rapidly evolving Asian industrial landscape.

    John Balboni - Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    John Balboni, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at International Paper, architects the digital infrastructure and technology strategy supporting global manufacturing operations. Overseeing the integration of advanced data analytics and cybersecurity, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer ensures that the company maintains a competitive edge in supply chain management. This role involves modernizing digital platforms to enhance the production of corrugated packaging and renewable fiber products. By driving technological innovation, John Balboni enables seamless connectivity across international facilities, improving overall operational efficiency. The Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer works with other C-suite leaders to implement digital solutions that support sustainability goals and customer service excellence. Through the deployment of scalable IT systems, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer empowers the organization to respond rapidly to changing market demands in the e-commerce and industrial sectors.

    Melissa Flores - Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Melissa Flores, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at International Paper, directs the global talent strategy and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing workforce development and leadership training, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the company attracts and retains the expertise necessary to produce sustainable fiber-based packaging. This role involves aligning human capital programs with the company's commitment to safety, diversity, and operational excellence. By fostering an inclusive environment, Melissa Flores supports the professional growth of employees across all manufacturing and recycling operations. The Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with the executive team to drive change management and organizational agility. Through the implementation of robust talent management systems, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains fully equipped to advance the company's mission in the global marketplace.
    Melissa Flores

    Gislaine Veronez - Rh

    Gislaine Veronez, the Rh at International Paper, manages human resources functions and personnel development within the regional operations. Overseeing employee engagement and local talent acquisition, the Rh ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the company's standards for sustainable manufacturing. This role involves implementing HR policies that support the production of renewable fiber products and recycling solutions. By focusing on regional workforce needs, Gislaine Veronez enhances the operational capacity of the local facilities. The Rh collaborates with site leadership to improve safety protocols and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Through the effective management of personnel resources, the Rh supports the company's ability to meet the demands of the industrial and commercial markets. By prioritizing employee well-being and professional development, the Rh ensures that the organization maintains a skilled and motivated team capable of delivering high-quality packaging solutions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding International Paper Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads International Paper?
    International Paper is led by César de Souza (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mark Nellessen (Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America)) and Lance Loeffler (Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of International Paper’s executive team?
    The executive team of International Paper includes leaders such as César de Souza (Chief Executive Officer), Mark Nellessen (Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America)), Lance Loeffler (Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer) 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 Chief Executive Officer, Packaging Solutions Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (North America), Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer, President of USW Local 4-0005, President, IP (Asia).