MONTREAL – Resolute Forest Products has appointed Yves Laflamme as the company’s new president and chief executive officer, succeeding Richard Garneau. Garneau announced his retirement on Feb. 1. Laflamme has held progressively senior positions within Resolute, frequently on the wood products side of the business.
“The Resolute Board of Directors enthusiastically supports Yves Laflamme’s selection, recognizing his good judgment and strong business acumen. Yves has a strong reputation in the industry, a well-refined focus on costs, and built teams that consistently deliver results. There is no better person to lead Resolute into the future,” stated Bradley P. Martin, chairman of the Board of Directors.
According to a company statement, under Garneau’s leadership, Resolute established a competitive cost structure and diversified asset base, a conservative capital structure and a sustainable business strategy. His unwavering commitment to a safe workplace and environmental stewardship has earned North American and global recognition.
In expressing its appreciation to Garneau, the Board of Directors recognized his dedication, strength of purpose and personal integrity. “Resolute is a stronger, more dynamic and far more sustainable company today following Richard’s seven-year tenure as president and CEO,” added Mr. Martin. “Richard personified courageous leadership, not only tackling complex issues but also challenging the status quo. Richard above all else is a man of his word, and Resolute in turn reflects this transparency and integrity. His principled leadership and insistence on truly sustainable outcomes have set the foundation for shared prosperity.”Incoming president and CEO, Yves Laflamme, commented: “I am honored to now lead Resolute as we take our next steps, further defining our collective future. We will build on the positive momentum, and continue to make Resolute a profitable and sustainable company. Richard led by example, exemplified principled leadership, and built upon his knowledge with a commitment to life-long learning. We are very pleased that Richard has agreed to stay on in an advisory capacity working with me on specific mandates.”
Laflamme currently serves as senior vice-president, Wood Products, Global Procurement and Information Technology for Resolute. He is a 37-year veteran of the industry, as well as Resolute and its predecessor companies. Laflamme began his career in Finance working at Donohue Inc.’s Saint-Félicien integrated pulp mill and wood products operations in 1981, and moved on to serve as controller for the company’s integrated newsprint and wood products facilities in the Abitibi region of Quebec. Over the past 15 years, he held a series of successive roles as vice-president and senior vice-president, covering the overall wood products business, including both operations and sales, as well as the company’s former recycling business.
Laflamme currently serves as: chairman of Resolute-LP Engineered Wood joint ventures, a Board member of Toundra Greenhouse, and an executive team member of the Quebec Forest Industry Council. He is a past chairman of the Canadian Wood Council.
“Yves has the depth of experience, necessary skill set and track record of success, prerequisites for the top job in this challenging industry environment. Yves is a tireless worker who has never lost sight of his roots. He has high expectations and is fair,” said Richard Garneau.
Resolute Forest Products has a diverse product range, including market pulp, tissue, wood products, newsprint and specialty papers. The company owns or operates some 40 manufacturing facilities, as well as power generation assets, in the United States and Canada.