Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (RYAM) has appointed Scott M. Sutton as chief executive officer and president, effective January 5, 2026, marking a key leadership transition for the Jacksonville-based cellulose and biomaterials producer. Sutton will also join the company’s board of directors.
A former president and CEO of Olin Corporation, Sutton brings more than three decades of global leadership experience in chemicals and materials, with a record of operational excellence, disciplined capital allocation and transformation initiatives. Non-executive chair Lisa M. Palumbo said his strategic mindset, operational rigor and commitment to safety and sustainability will support the advancement of RYAM’s biomaterials strategy.
Sutton said he is honored to join RYAM at “an important time” for the company, highlighting its strong foundation, skilled workforce and role in global markets. He signaled priorities around accelerating performance, strengthening partnerships and unlocking the potential of the company’s specialty cellulose and biomaterials platform.
He succeeds DeLyle W. Bloomquist, whose planned retirement was announced in late 2025 and who will remain as an advisor during the transition. The board thanked Bloomquist for his leadership and service to stakeholders.
To align incentives, RYAM will grant Sutton a performance share unit award with a three-year performance period and a one-year post-vesting holding requirement. RYAM describes itself as a global leader in cellulose-based technologies, with operations in the United States, Canada and France and approximately $1.6 billion in 2024 revenue.
Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) is a global producer of cellulose-based technologies, including specialty cellulose used in filters, food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. The company also manufactures fluff pulp, biofuels, bioelectricity and other biomaterials, as well as products for paper and packaging markets. RYAM operates facilities in the United States, Canada and France and reported approximately $1.6 billion in revenue in 2024.
Source: RYAM
