Mika Kekki Appointed Executive Vice President of UPM Specialty Papers, Effective January 2025

Mika Kekki

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UPM has announced the appointment of Mika Kekki as Executive Vice President of its Specialty Papers business area, effective January 1, 2025.

Kekki, who currently leads UPM Plywood, will continue to be a member of the UPM Group Executive Team, reporting directly to CEO Massimo Reynaudo.

With a career at UPM spanning three decades, Mika Kekki has been instrumental in steering UPM Plywood through significant growth and transformation. Since joining UPM in 1994, his roles have included various leadership positions that reflect his focus on operational excellence, productivity, and profitability. A member of the Group Executive Team since 2021, Kekki briefly took on additional responsibilities this year by overseeing UPM Communication Papers during a leadership transition. CEO Massimo Reynaudo highlighted Kekki’s contributions, noting his “strong performance focus” and his commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.

Kekki will succeed Jaakko Nikkilä, who has led UPM Specialty Papers to become a global industry leader, with particular success in expanding the company’s market presence in Asia. With years spent in China, Nikkilä has played a vital role in shaping UPM’s growth strategy in the region. Commenting on Nikkilä's departure, Reynaudo expressed appreciation for his service, stating, “Under Jaakko’s leadership, UPM Specialty Papers has strengthened its global position. We wish him every success in his future pursuits.”

Nikkilä will remain in his position through the end of 2024 to ensure a smooth transition. UPM has also begun the search for a successor to lead UPM Plywood.

About UPM

UPM is committed to offering renewable and responsible solutions that advance a sustainable, low-carbon future. Through its six business areas—UPM Fibres, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Communication Papers, and UPM Plywood—the company strives for innovation and sustainability across the global pulp and paper industry. Employing 16,600 people worldwide and generating annual sales of approximately EUR 10.5 billion, UPM continues to champion the transition to fossil-free alternatives.