“The hire of Kevin Richard, an accomplished senior executive and business manager, underscores Sustana’s continued commitment to operational efficiency, high-quality products, sustainable manufacturing operations and responsible business practices,” says Fabian de Armas, Sustana Chairman and CEO. “We’re pleased to have Kevin join our team and continue our 137-year history of producing the highest quality paper and recycled fibers in the industry.”
As COO, Richard is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Saint Jerome Paper Production and Converting Facility for Rolland papers in Quebec, Canada, as well as Sustana`s recycled fiber operations in Levis, Quebec, and De Pere, Wisconsin. Sustana Group has full control over the fiber production, recycled papermaking, and converting processes, and Richard’s role will ensure continued superior quality assurance and consistent sustainable manufacturing operations across the board.
Richard brings more than three decades of industry experience to Sustana. He spent 20 years of his career at Mohawk Papers, where he served as President and COO. During his time at Mohawk, Richard was selected as recipient of the Pulp & Paper Safety Association's 2008 Executive Eagle Award, presented annually to an executive in the paper industry who has made major contributions to safety and health programs within a company. Richard also spent over a decadeat International Paper Co. prior to joining Mohawk. Most recently, he served as President and COO of Flambeau River Papers, where he managed all aspects of operations and established an excellent track record in manufacturing management, productivity improvement, new product development, quality improvement, inventory management and reduction, and organizational development.
“Sustana is the leader in sustainable practices in the pulp and the paper industry, and I am absolutely thrilled to join this passionate and innovative group,” explains Kevin Richard, COO. “I look forward to collaborating and applying my unique experience to further strengthen their operations and support their continued success with both their core fiber and paper businesses.”
Richard holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Northeastern University and attended Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, Columbia University and Harvard Business School.
