Metsä Board Corporation confirms that its long-serving CEO Mika Joukio will step down from his position on 7 April 2025, with Esa Kaikkonen appointed as his successor by the company’s Board of Directors. Joukio will continue supporting the transition until October 2025. This announcement follows an agreement between Joukio and the Board finalized Monday, according to Metsä Board Corporation.
Joukio’s career spans 35 years, beginning at the Tako board mill and culminating in his appointment as CEO in 2014. Under his leadership, Metsä Board completed major investments at Husum and Kemi mills, launched the Simpele modernization project, and restructured operations in Pirkanmaa.
Kaikkonen, currently EVP, Strategy at Metsä Group, has held senior roles across the organization since 1998. His previous positions include CEO of Metsä Tissue (2018–2025), EVP of Metsä Wood (2013–2018), and Group General Counsel (2003–2013). The Board emphasized Kaikkonen’s leadership background and internal experience as strong qualifications for the CEO role.
