Newell appointed to Smurfit Kappa board

Packaging company Smurfit Kappa Group has today announced the appointment of Roberto Newell to the board as a non-executive Director, with immediate effect.

Mexican citizen Roberto Newell, 62, is CEO of the Instituto Mexicano para la Competitividad, A.C. (IMCO), an independent think-tank in Mexico, established to develop policies to enhance Mexico's competitiveness.

Prior to joining IMCO, Mr Newell served Mexico’s Federal Government, most recently as Deputy Secretary for Agriculture.

Commenting on the appointment, Smurfit Kappa Group chairman, Liam O'Mahony, said: "We are pleased to announce the appointment of Roberto as an independent director.

His appointment reflects the increasing importance of the Latin American region to the group. His extensive experience, across Latin America, will be valuable to the board as we continue to develop our presence throughout the region."

Mr Newell said: "I am honoured to be appointed to the board of a group with a strong and respected reputation in Latin America and I look forward to contributing to the group’s continued growth in the region."