Sylvamo has announced a key leadership change in its European operations as Oliver Taudien, senior vice president and general manager for Europe, prepares to exit the company following a transition period.
Taudien has played a central role at Sylvamo since its launch as a spinoff from International Paper in 2021. Over his 27-year career, he held several leadership positions spanning finance, strategy, IT, and general management. His departure marks the end of a long tenure in the pulp and paper industry.
Replacing him is Shawn Lawson, who will assume the role of senior vice president and general manager, Europe, effective May 1. Lawson brings two decades of experience from International Paper, where she most recently served as vice president and general manager of European Packaging.
“I appreciate Oliver’s many contributions and his leadership in establishing Sylvamo in Europe,” said Jean-Michel Ribiéras, chairman and CEO. “I am excited to welcome Shawn, who will help us continue to pursue our vision of being the employer, supplier and investment of choice across Europe and around the world.”
Lawson will be based in Madrid, Spain.
Sylvamo operates paper mills in Europe, Latin America and North America. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company reported $3.8 billion in net sales for 2024 and employs over 6,500 people globally.
