Fastmarkets has announced its 2026 Forest Products industry awards, recognizing three executives for outstanding leadership in a challenging market environment.
Andy Silvernail, CEO of International Paper, received the International CEO of the Year award.
Selected by investment analysts and portfolio managers, Silvernail was honored for accelerating International Paper’s transformation following the completion of the DS Smith acquisition. The company has advanced regulatory-driven actions to optimize its European footprint, including exclusive negotiations to divest five European corrugated box plants, while pursuing strategic and operational changes to improve service levels and strengthen its cost position.
Henrik Sjölund, CEO of Holmen Paper, was named European CEO of the Year.
Despite difficult European demand conditions, Sjölund strengthened Holmen’s market position through disciplined performance and operational adaptability, particularly in managing volatile electricity-market conditions. The company has also progressed readiness work for evolving European requirements, including the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Anita Sjölander, CEO of Nordic Paper, received the Woman of the Industry award.
Sjölander guided Nordic Paper through challenging market conditions while maintaining pricing discipline and advancing strategic investments. In 2025, the company approved up to SEK 450 million in environmental investments for water handling at its Bäckhammar mill, alongside major capex projects including a new wood room and electrofilters to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.
The awards will be presented at the Fastmarkets Forest Products Europe Conference in Barcelona, March 9-11, 2026.
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