Mr. Sutton was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of International Paper Company, a leading global producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp, and paper products until his retirement in 2024. Prior to becoming CEO in 2014, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer with responsibility for running International Paper’s global business. Mr. Sutton joined International Paper in 1984 as an Electrical Engineer. He held roles of increasing responsibility throughout his career, including Mill Manager, Vice President of Corrugated Packaging Operations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Vice President of Corporate Strategic Planning, and Senior Vice President of several business units, including global supply chain. He serves on the board of directors of the Louisiana State University Foundation.
Mr. Sutton has extensive leadership experience with increasing levels of responsibility and leadership at International Paper. At International Paper, he oversaw its robust sustainability disclosures which are aligned with GRI, and its Vision 2030, which set forth ambitious forest stewardship targets and plans to transition to renewable solutions and sustainable operations. He also oversaw International Paper’s Vision 2030 goals pertaining to diversity and inclusion. He brings to the Board the critical thinking that comes with an electrical engineering background, as well as his experience leading a global company with labor unions. His strong strategic planning background, manufacturing and supply chain experience, and his leadership are of value to the Board. Mr. Sutton serves as Chair of the Corporate Governance Committee and Lead Director of the Board. Mr. Sutton’s global executive leadership and his corporate governance experience as Chairman and CEO of International Paper serve as the basis for his leadership role as Lead Director.
Committees: Compensation & Talent Development and Finance