Tuesday, July 29, 2025
UPM, a leading material solutions company focused on sustainability and innovation, has announced the appointment of Sami Pauni as Executive Vice President (EVP) and General Counsel. Sami will officially join the Group Executive Team by January 24, 2026, reporting directly to Massimo Reynaudo, UPM’s President and CEO. His wealth of experience in legal matters, compliance, corporate governance, and sustainability positions him to play a key role in shaping UPM’s future.
A strong leadership transition
Sami Pauni, born in 1974, joins UPM after an impressive tenure at Huhtamäki Oyj, where he has held various senior roles since 2006. His professional journey at Huhtamäki, a global packaging company, includes leadership positions in legal affairs, sustainability, corporate responsibility, and intellectual property. Most recently, Pauni served as EVP of Sustainability, Corporate Affairs, and Legal, and was a member of the company’s Global Executive Team since 2015. Pauni holds a Master of Laws degree and is a Finnish citizen, based in Helsinki, Finland.
Sami Pauni’s appointment comes as UPM continues to strengthen its legal and sustainability leadership across global markets. In a statement, Massimo Reynaudo expressed his confidence in Pauni’s ability to support UPM’s long-term strategic goals: “I warmly welcome Sami to UPM and the Group Executive team. He is a seasoned, well-versed professional whose broad expertise in legal, compliance, and corporate governance will serve us well.”
Pauni’s appointment also marks the conclusion of Juha Mäkelä’s distinguished tenure as UPM’s Group General Counsel. After 20 years of exceptional service, Juha will retire by the end of 2025, having served as a trusted leader, offering invaluable counsel to the company. Massimo Reynaudo acknowledged Juha’s significant contributions: “Throughout his 20-year career in the company, he has been a trusted and highly respected leader and colleague, known for his sound counsel based on his strong business acumen and uncompromised integrity.”
Juha Mäkelä will remain in his role until the end of 2025 and will continue as Senior Adviser to UPM during the first half of 2026 to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Sami Pauni’s expertise aligns with UPM’s values
Sami Pauni’s extensive background in sustainability and corporate governance is a key asset for UPM. As a company committed to renewable solutions and sustainability, UPM is making strides in decarbonisation, advanced materials, and responsible sourcing of renewable fibers. Pauni’s experience in these areas at Huhtamäki, particularly his focus on sustainability and risk management, aligns closely with UPM’s strategic direction.
UPM has long been recognised for its commitment to sustainability. The company’s achievements have been acknowledged by third-party organisations such as EcoVadis and the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, where UPM continues to earn high marks for its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. This focus on sustainable development plays a critical role in UPM’s expansion into new markets and innovative products, ranging from advanced materials to decarbonisation solutions.
About UPM
UPM is a global leader in providing sustainable material solutions, with an extensive portfolio that includes renewable fibres, advanced materials, and sustainable communication papers. The company is driven by its commitment to renewable products and entire value chains, focusing on innovations that meet the needs of tomorrow’s industries. With a workforce of approximately 15,800 people worldwide, UPM generates annual sales of approximately €10.3 billion. The company is listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd.
The company’s business operations span multiple industries, and UPM’s solutions are integral to sectors such as automotive, construction, packaging, and the renewable energy industry. Through continuous innovation and a forward-thinking approach, UPM is set to remain a key player in sustainable materials, contributing to global decarbonization efforts.
Evaluating the future under Sami Pauni’s guidance
With Sami Pauni stepping into the role of EVP and General Counsel, UPM is well-positioned to continue its growth in the competitive materials industry. Pauni’s legal, corporate, and sustainability expertise will enhance UPM’s ability to navigate the complexities of global markets, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of sustainable innovation.
The appointment comes as UPM sets its sights on new growth opportunities, ensuring the company’s role in creating sustainable value for its customers, shareholders, and communities around the world. Pauni’s leadership is expected to drive continued success in UPM’s pursuit of innovative solutions that address the most pressing global challenges in sustainability.
As UPM continues to lead the way in sustainable materials, the addition of Sami Pauni to the leadership team marks a significant step forward in the company’s journey toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.
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