Holmes replaces Will Oldham, who stepped down at the end of last year before becoming managing director of API Foils.

Holmes re-joined UPM in 2003 and will continue his current responsibilities as sales director for UPM UK's distributor business; he will be based at the company's Altrincham office.

He said: "I look forward to the new wider role and the continued collaboration with my colleagues."

UPM UK Paper Sales currently employs approximately 60 people across sales, supply chain, customer service and support function areas.

Prior to joining UPM, he held roles at Bridgewater Paper Company, Kymmene UK Paper sales and Enron industrial Markets.