Jan 13, 2016. /Lesprom Network/. To strengthen Valmet's R&D operations Mr. Ari Saario has been appointed Director, R&D at Valmet as of January 18, 2016. He will report to Juha Lappalainen, Senior Vice President of Valmet's Strategy and Operational Development corporate function, as the company says in the press release received by Lesprom Network.

The R&D director position is new in the company, and Ari Saario will concentrate on ensuring an effective R&D process and commercialization of new innovations, right R&D project portfolio and a clear R&D road-map to secure Valmet's technological leadership also in the future.

Ari Saario moves to this new position from Valmet's Pulp and Energy business line's R&D function. He has a strong background in technology and R&D from Oilon, Metso and Valmet. He has versatile experience of more than 10 years in research and technology development, R&D team leadership and R&D funding.

Valmet is the leading global developer and supplier of technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries.