The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) announced the election of Steve Henry, Paper & Packaging CEO and President USA at Domtar, as incoming Chair of its Board of Directors. The announcement was made during the Association’s Winter Board of Directors’ Meeting, held in Washington on 29 January 2026.
Henry joined senior leaders from across the pulp, paper, packaging and tissue sectors at the annual meeting, which also served to confirm the Association’s Board roster and welcome newly elected members.
“Steve is a trusted leader whose deep industry knowledge and steady commitment to our shared priorities will serve the Board and the entire AF&PA membership well,” said Heidi Brock, President and CEO of AF&PA. “His willingness to serve is greatly appreciated, and his leadership will help guide the association through another year of meaningful progress.”
The AF&PA Board of Directors is composed of senior executives representing a broad range of companies active in the paper and wood products manufacturing sector. Collectively, these companies operate paper mills and converting facilities in nearly every U.S. state, with a significant presence in rural communities.
Alongside the appointment of the new Chair, AF&PA confirmed its officer positions. Arsen Kitch, President and CEO of Clearwater Paper Corporation, was named First Vice Chair, while Andrew Silvernail, Chairman and CEO of International Paper, was confirmed as Second Vice Chair. Mark Kowlzan, Chairman and CEO of Packaging Corporation of America, continued to serve as Immediate Past Chair.
AF&PA also elected Robbert Rietbroek, President and CEO of Graphic Packaging International, as a new member of the Board of Directors. He joined a group of recently elected and re-elected directors representing a wide spectrum of the North American and global paper and packaging industry, including companies active in containerboard, specialty papers, tissue, packaging and forest products.
In addition, the Association welcomed new members to its organisation, including Crown Paper Group and K.T.G. (USA) Inc. as company members, and Burkes Mechanical as an associate member.
Commenting on his appointment, Steve Henry stated: “The AF&PA Board is made up of exceptional leaders who care deeply about the future of this industry and the people who make it strong. Working together, there is a strong opportunity to address both the challenges and opportunities ahead, while delivering value to customers and supporting the many communities in which the industry operates.”
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