Glens Falls, NY-based Finch Paper has appointed Robert (Bob) M. McDonald as vice-president, manufacturing. Most recently, he was director of manufacturing at Green Bay Packaging's Coated Products Division in Green Bay, WI, where he was responsible for six operating facilities.

Before that, he was vice-president, operations at Wausau Papers Printing & Writing division. He was also vice-president, operations at Fox River Paper Co. in Appleton, WI. Other industry experience includes six years with Kimberly-Clark Corp., four of which were with Neenah Paper and two as mill manager for the company's Coosa Pines, AL newsprint operation.

At Finch Paper, McDonald's responsibilities encompass all aspects of the manufacturing process, from the wood yard through pulping and papermaking, to converting and finishing. He will also oversee the power plant and waste treatment operations, and all maintenance and engineering functions.

McDonald will utilize his extensive background in Lean and Six Sigma methodology to further the mill-wide Continuous Improve - ment Initiative, started by Finch Paper last year and which won the 2009 Pulp & Paper International (PPI) Award for Efficiency Improvements worldwide. The Initiative allowed Finch to reduce its energy consumption by 4% and $2 million, reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 13% and achieve nearly $4.2 million in savings through manufacturing- related efficiency improvements.

"Bob's broad experience spans all levels of mill operations," says Finch Paper president and CEO Joseph Raccuia. "I am confident his knowledge and experience will greatly benefit our company and its continued success."

McDonald holds a BS in Paper Science from Western Michigan University. He has considerable knowledge and experience in the use of Lean and Six Sigma tools for operational and over-all business improvements. In 2008, he achieved his Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

www.finchpaper.com. PI

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