Feb 23, 2020

International Paper names first chief sustainability officer

International Paper, a producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper, has named its first-ever chief sustainability officer as it prepares to advance its contributions to the circular economy. Sophie Beckham will lead the company’s recently announced Vision 2030, which demonstrates its commitment to building a better future for people, the planet and the company.

“Customers, investors and employees depend on us to be leaders in environmental stewardship and to strengthen our people and communities; appointing a chief sustainability officer is the next step in our continuing progress,” said Mark Sutton, chairman and chief executive officer. “Sophie is uniquely qualified to lead the pursuit of our Vision 2030 goals and drive sustainability efforts that create value for all of our stakeholders.”

Beckham will lead the development and execution of the company’s sustainability strategy, including efforts to integrate the Vision 2030 goals into the strategic, operating, people and financial plans across the company’s global businesses. Through these goals, International Paper will advance its contributions to the circular, low-carbon economy while building on its commitments to its people and communities.

“For more than 120 years, forest stewardship has been at the core of how we have operated our company,” said Beckham. “Today, we recognize the broader role we can play in advancing sustainable outcomes–both environmental and social. This is an important time for International Paper, and I’m extremely excited to amplify our ambition to be among the most successful, sustainable and responsible companies in the world.”

Beckham joined International Paper in 2013 to manage the company’s forest stewardship and sustainability efforts.

To learn more about the company’s approach to sustainability, visit renewablefuture.internationalpaper.com.