Bresky, who has been head of Stora Enso’s consumer board division since 2017, will begin in the role on 1 December, replacing current chief executive Karl-Henrik Sundström, who is resigning.

Bresky was previously chief executive and president of Iggesund Paperboard from 2013 to 2017. She was also managing director at BillerudKorsnäs Karlsborg between 2011 and 2013 and had worked as a development engineer and production superintendent at Stora Enso’s Kvarnsveden mill from 2001 to 2010.

“Annica brings extensive experience of our industry and has a solid business background. We consider her the most suitable person to continue developing Stora Enso’s strategy and businesses,” said Jorma Eloranta, chair of the board of directors at Stora Enso.

“She has a proven track record of driving growth and operational excellence and has a strong focus on customers and innovations. She is well equipped to lead the transformation of our sustainable renewable materials company.”

Bresky added: “I am very honoured to have this opportunity. I am looking forward to continuing to build the future of Stora Enso together with our competent teams across the company.

“We are well positioned to grow with our customers and support their business with sustainable and innovative solutions. Together with my Stora Enso colleagues, our customers and our partners all over the world, we will accelerate our efforts as a front runner in combatting global warming.”

Sundström will support the leadership transition in his remaining months with the business.

“Karl-Henrik has been the driving force in developing Stora Enso into an industry leader in sustainability and innovation. The board of directors highly appreciates his valuable contributions during his years with the company,” said Eloranta.

In May Stora Enso signalled the end for Lumi coated woodfree paper and its exit from that market after confirming plans to convert its Oulo Mill in Finland into packaging board production.