Katariina Kemppainen, Senior Vice President, Group R&D at Metsä Group, has been appointed Chair of the Board of the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) on 28 May 2026.
Kemppainen’s appointment strengthens Metsä Group’s position in advancing the European bioeconomy. It also highlights the important role of the Finnish forest and bio-based industry sector in building a sustainable and competitive bioeconomy in the EU. The Chair role gives Metsä Group stronger opportunities to shape industry development. It helps create the conditions to strengthen the global competitiveness of the forest industry and anticipate EU policymaking.
She succeeds Rob Beekers of Cargill, under whose leadership BIC grew significantly: the number of industry members increased by around 160 (approximately 67%), and associated members by around 150 (approximately 75%).
Kemppainen says that the main objective of her two-year term is to ensure continued EU R&D funding for the bioeconomy and to strengthen the ability of companies in the sector to influence EU policymaking.
“I am honoured to chair the BIC Board at a critical moment for Europe’s bio-based industries. I see BIC as a catalyst for systemic change towards a more resilient and circular European bioeconomy, as BIC acts as a link between industry and the European Commission. I look forward to working with our members and partners to strengthen innovation, scale up, and impact across Europe,” says Kemppainen.
BIC is a key player in the development of the EU bioeconomy, and its work directly influences funding, innovation and the regulatory environment of the sector. The Chair position provides Metsä Group with an opportunity to showcase its expertise and contribute to the sustainable growth of the industry in Europe.
Photo/Metsä
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