Meet the Domtar Board of Directors

As one of the largest pulp and paper companies in the world, Domtar Corporation holds a prominent place in the industry. It is the company's board of directors that bears a significant responsibility to guide the organization in achieving its strategic objectives and ensuring its long-term success.

Introduction to Domtar Corporation

Domtar is a leading global provider of fiber-based products, including communication, specialty, and packaging papers, pulp, and absorbent hygiene products, such as baby diapers, adult incontinence, and feminine care products. Domtar operates over 50 mills and manufacturing plants across North America and Europe and employs over 10,000 people worldwide. The company's products are widely used in printing and publishing, retail and e-commerce, food packaging, and personal care.

Domtar is committed to sustainability and responsible forest management. The company has set a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 and has implemented sustainable forestry practices to ensure the long-term health of the forests it sources from. Domtar also partners with local communities to support education, health, and environmental initiatives.

History of Domtar Corporation

Founded in 1848 as a pulp and paper company in Quebec, Canada, Domtar Corporation has a rich history. The company has evolved into one of the world's largest and most respected providers of fiber-based products. Over the years, Domtar has undergone many changes. In 2006, it acquired Weyerhaeuser's fine paper business, followed by an acquisition of Attends Healthcare in 2011, a manufacturer of adult incontinence and feminine care products. More recently, Domtar sold its personal care business in 2021 and announced plans to convert the Plymouth, North Carolina mill to produce 100% recycled containerboard in response to increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

Domtar Corporation has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability. In 2019, the company was named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the 12th consecutive year, and in 2020, it was included in the FTSE4Good Index for the fifth year in a row. Domtar has set ambitious sustainability goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 and sourcing 100% of its wood fiber from responsibly managed forests by 2022. The company has also invested in renewable energy, with several of its mills generating electricity from biomass and hydro sources.

Overview of the Board of Directors

The Domtar Corporation's board of directors consists of ten members, all of whom bring significant expertise and experience across a range of fields. The board is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the company, its financial performance, and its adherence to corporate governance and ethical standards.

One of the key responsibilities of the board of directors is to ensure that the company is operating in a socially responsible manner. This includes monitoring the company's impact on the environment, as well as its relationships with employees, customers, and suppliers. The board also plays a critical role in setting the company's culture and values, and ensuring that they are reflected in all aspects of the business.

In addition to their oversight responsibilities, the board of directors also plays an important role in shaping the company's future. This includes identifying new growth opportunities, evaluating potential acquisitions or partnerships, and ensuring that the company is well-positioned to compete in a rapidly changing marketplace. The board works closely with the company's executive team to develop and implement strategies that will drive long-term success and create value for shareholders.

Role and Responsibilities of the Board Members

The Domtar Corporation's board members have a diverse range of responsibilities. They are responsible for developing and implementing the company's strategic plan, ensuring that the company meets its financial obligations, overseeing major investments, monitoring risk management, conducting CEO performance appraisals, and ensuring that the company adheres to corporate governance and ethical standards. Additionally, the board sets executive pay and oversees the development and succession planning of the company's leadership team.

Furthermore, the board members are also responsible for representing the interests of the company's shareholders and stakeholders. They must ensure that the company operates in a socially responsible manner and takes into account the impact of its actions on the environment and the community. The board must also maintain effective communication with shareholders and stakeholders, providing them with regular updates on the company's performance and addressing any concerns they may have.

Current Members of the Board and Their Backgrounds

The Domtar Corporation's board consists of ten members, all of whom bring unique perspectives and expertise to the company. John Williams, the Chairman and CEO of Domtar, serves as a member of the board. The other members are: Wesley W. von Schack, Pamela B. Strobel, Mary A. Winston, Daniel R. DiMicco, W. Geoffrey Beattie, John D. Williams, Jr., Christiana Smith Shi, Calvin E. Jr. Butler, and Andrea R. J. Bonita. Each member has deep industry knowledge and experience across a diverse range of sectors, including finance, marketing, and technology.

Wesley W. von Schack has over 30 years of experience in the energy industry, having served as the CEO of Energy East Corporation and Florida Power & Light Company. Pamela B. Strobel has extensive experience in corporate governance, having served as the former Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Exelon Corporation. Mary A. Winston has over 30 years of experience in finance and accounting, having served as the former Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Family Dollar Stores, Inc.

Daniel R. DiMicco has over 40 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, having served as the former Chairman and CEO of Nucor Corporation. W. Geoffrey Beattie has extensive experience in marketing and communications, having served as the former Chief Marketing and Communications Officer of TD Bank Group. John D. Williams, Jr. has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry, having served as the former President and CEO of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.

Profiles of the Chairman and CEO

John Williams is the Chairman and CEO of Domtar Corporation. He has been with Domtar since 2009, serving in various executive positions before becoming CEO in 2013. Williams brings thirty years of experience in the pulp and paper industry and has played a significant role in the company's transformation over the years. Under his leadership, Domtar has emerged as a leader in sustainability and has made significant investments in technology and innovation in recent years.

Prior to joining Domtar, Williams held executive positions at several other companies in the pulp and paper industry. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in Chemical Engineering and holds an MBA from Harvard Business School. Williams is also actively involved in various industry associations and serves on the board of directors for several non-profit organizations.

The Board's Vision for Domtar's Future

The Domtar Corporation's board has a clear and ambitious vision for the future of the company. The board aims to consolidate the company's leadership position in the industry with a continued focus on sustainability, innovation, and growth. Domtar has charted a new course with its recent announcement to convert the Plymouth mill into a 100% recycled containerboard operation, enabling it to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in North America. The board aims to stay ahead of the curve in the industry and capitalize on emerging growth opportunities to deliver long-term value to its shareholders and other stakeholders.

In addition to its focus on sustainability and innovation, the board is also committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within the company. Domtar recognizes that a diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives and ideas, which can lead to better decision-making and improved business outcomes. The board is actively working to increase diversity at all levels of the organization, including the board itself.

Furthermore, the board is committed to giving back to the communities in which Domtar operates. The company has a long history of supporting local initiatives and charitable organizations, and the board aims to continue this tradition. Domtar's community involvement includes supporting education, environmental conservation, and social welfare programs, among others. The board believes that by investing in the communities where it operates, Domtar can help create a better future for all.

Strategic Planning and Decision Making Process of the Board

The Board of Directors of Domtar Corporation follows a disciplined approach to strategic planning and decision-making. The board meets regularly to discuss the company's performance, review progress on its strategic objectives, assess current and emerging risks, and engage with the company's management team. Its decision-making process is anchored in rigorous analysis, candid evaluation, and transparent communication with all stakeholders.

One of the key factors that sets Domtar Corporation's board apart is its focus on long-term planning. The board recognizes that sustainable growth and success require a strategic vision that extends beyond short-term gains. As such, the board regularly engages in discussions about the company's future direction, exploring new opportunities and assessing potential risks.

In addition to its strategic planning efforts, the board also places a strong emphasis on corporate governance. The board is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency, and regularly reviews and updates its policies and procedures to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. This commitment to good governance helps to build trust and confidence among investors, employees, and other stakeholders, and is a key factor in the company's long-term success.

Corporate Governance and Ethics at Domtar

The Domtar Corporation's board is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical behavior and corporate governance. The board has established robust policies and procedures to ensure that the company operates in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations and that it maintains an ethical and responsible corporate culture. Domtar's corporate governance practices include an independent chairman and CEO, a board oversight committee, annual elections of directors, and regular assessment of board effectiveness.

In addition to these practices, Domtar also has a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to all employees, officers, and directors. The code outlines the company's expectations for ethical behavior, including honesty, integrity, and respect for others. It also provides guidance on how to handle potential conflicts of interest and how to report any violations of the code. Domtar's commitment to corporate governance and ethics is reflected in its recognition as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute for ten consecutive years.

Achievements of the Board in Recent Years

The Domtar Corporation's board has made significant achievements over the past few years. The board has overseen the transformation of the company into a leader in sustainability and promoted a culture of innovation and excellence across all areas of the business. Additionally, the board has implemented a number of best practices in corporate governance and transparency, enabling the company to maintain the trust of its stakeholders and ensure a high level of accountability.

One of the most notable achievements of the board in recent years has been the successful implementation of a comprehensive diversity and inclusion strategy. This strategy has led to a more diverse and inclusive workforce, with a greater representation of women and minorities in leadership positions. The board recognizes that diversity and inclusion are critical to the long-term success of the company, and is committed to continuing to promote these values throughout the organization.

Challenges Faced by the Domtar Board

As with any major corporation, Domtar faces a range of challenges that require nimble and effective management and governance. The company operates in an ever-changing landscape where technological advancements, environmental concerns, and shifting market conditions create both challenges and opportunities. The Domtar Corporation's board must navigate these challenges carefully, continually review and update its strategies, and maintain the company's competitive edge.

Future Plans and Goals for Domtar under Board's Leadership

The Domtar Corporation's board is focused on driving sustainable growth and progress for the company. It aims to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the industry while maintaining a focus on sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence. The board is committed to ongoing monitoring of the company's performance, assessing market conditions and industry trends, and adjusting its strategies as required to meet the needs and expectations of its stakeholders.

Conclusion: Importance of a Strong, Effective Board of Directors

As we have seen, the Domtar Corporation's board plays a vital role in the company's success. The board's commitment to ethical behavior, corporate governance, and strategic planning sets the foundation for the company's continued growth and progress. Through its careful oversight and guidance, the board helps to ensure that Domtar remains at the forefront of the industry, delivering sustainable and innovative solutions to its customers and stakeholders.