SKOWHEGAN, ME (News release) -- Sappi North America has assembled a powerhouse leadership team to drive the company's next phase of manufacturing innovation and investment.

Three highly experienced industry professionals-Kirk Ross, Marty Richard and Blue Keim-are leading efforts to enhance efficiency across Sappi's manufacturing platform. Ross and Richard are focused on operations across North America, including sites in Maine, Minnesota, and Quebec, while Keim is overseeing the day-to-day operations at the Somerset Mill following the successful conversion of Paper Machine No. 2 (PM2). This major initiative, known as Project Elevate, positions Sappi for long-term growth by addressing the increasing demand for sustainably produced paperboard.

Kirk Ross was recently appointed Vice President of Manufacturing for Sappi North America, effective July 1. With nearly three decades in the pulp and paper industry, Ross most recently served as Project Director for the $500 million PM2 conversion at the Somerset Mill. He brings deep technical knowledge and proven project management expertise to his new role, where he will oversee Sappi's North American manufacturing operations.

Marty Richard joined the company in June as Director of Manufacturing. A fourth-generation pulp and paper professional, Richard brings a lifetime of industry knowledge and leadership. His background includes senior roles at large pulp, tissue, and chip mill complexes. At Sappi, he will help advance operational excellence across the company's mill network.

Blue Keim, Managing Director of the Somerset Mill, has provided critical operational leadership over the past year, ensuring both the continuity of daily production and the successful execution of Project Elevate. His nearly 30 years of experience in pulp and paper operations, including prior leadership at Sappi's Westbrook facility, make him a key asset in the company's strategic growth in the region.

"Maine is a unique place to live, work, and innovate, and we are proud to invest in the people and operations that will carry us into the future," said Michael Haws, CEO of Sappi North America. "These three leaders play pivotal roles in achieving operational excellence and optimizing Sappi's nearly billion-dollar investment over the last decade in our assets and infrastructure. Their leadership is critical to our success."

All three team members are proud graduates of the University of Maine - a testament to the university's role in preparing leaders for the pulp and paper industry.