Aug 02, 2007. /Lesprom Network/. Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation has named John Lingle vice president for the company's corrugated container division's sheet feeder region. In addition to leading the company's three sheet feeding facilities, Lingle will focus on pursuing and developing alliances to strategically grow Smurfit-Stone's sheet feeding business. "John has been an integral part of our leadership team and will continue to bring great value to the company as he works to grow and strengthen our sheet feeding system," said John Knudsen, Smurfit-Stone senior vice president of manufacturing in the corrugated container division. "John's appointment will enhance our ability to provide exceptional service to our customers as well as strengthen our industry-leading position." Mr. Lingle most recently served as general manager for Smurfit-Stone's sheet feeder facilities. He was one of the founders of Innovative Packaging in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (acquired by Smurfit-Stone in 2000), serving as its president since its inception in 1997. Prior to that, Mr. Lingle held various management positions with the former Stone Container Corporation and predecessor companies. He is a 27-year industry veteran and earned his BA in marketing and management from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. As North America's premier packaging company, Smurfit-Stone is the industry's leading integrated manufacturer of paperboard and paper-based packaging. Smurfit-Stone also is one of the world's largest paper recyclers. Smurfit-Stone operates approximately 170 facilities and employs approximately 22 000 people.