RYAM Announces the Hiring of Michael Osborne as VP, Manufacturing; Bill Manzer to Retire and Support Transition

Rhea-AI Summary

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (NYSE:RYAM) has appointed Michael Osborne as Vice President of Manufacturing effective April 10, 2023, succeeding Bill Manzer, who will retire in March 2024. Osborne brings over 30 years of manufacturing experience, previously serving as Vice President of Global Manufacturing at Kraton Pine Chemicals. His academic qualifications include a BS in Chemistry, an MS in Chemical Engineering, and an MBA. Manzer, with RYAM for over twelve years, will assist in the transition while completing ongoing projects. RYAM aims to advance its Biofuture initiative focused on sustainable product development. The company reported revenues of approximately $1.7 billion in 2022 and operates manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Canada, and France.

Positive

• Michael Osborne's extensive experience in manufacturing could lead to enhanced operational efficiency.
• RYAM's commitment to developing sustainable products aligns with current industry trends and consumer preferences.

Negative

• The impending retirement of Bill Manzer may lead to transitional challenges within the manufacturing department.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (NYSE:RYAM) (the “Company” or “RYAM”) is pleased to announce that Michael Osborne joined the company on April 10, 2023, as Vice President, Manufacturing replacing Bill Manzer, who has announced his plans to retire. Michael is a thirty-plus-year manufacturing veteran, most recently holding the position of Vice President, Global Manufacturing for Kraton Pine Chemicals.

Michael earned his BS in Chemistry from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1990, obtained an advanced MS in Chemical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a focus on pulp and paper technology in 1992, and then went on to earn his MBA from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1999. Michael began his career with Georgia Pacific and achieved the position of Director of Strategic Planning before he left in 2011 to join Arizona Chemical Company as Senior Plant Manager at their Panama City, Florida facility. Michael was promoted to Director, Global Engineering in 2015, shortly before Arizona Chemical was acquired by Kraton in 2016. In December 2019, Michael was promoted to Director of Global Manufacturing and, subsequently, Vice President, Global Manufacturing for the Pine Chemicals division.

Bill Manzer, EVP, Manufacturing, has been with RYAM for over twelve years and has held progressively more responsible roles with the company. As Michael onboards, Bill will remain with RYAM through March 2024, supporting the transition and finishing several projects where he is significantly immersed. His experience, industry knowledge, and steady leadership will be missed as he and Ellen enter their retirement phase.

“Bill’s steady leadership and unparalleled industry experience have aided RYAM in improving its operations, quality, reliability, and safety. I am thankful for Bill’s many years of contributions and appreciate his willingness to provide for a seamless transition and finish several key initiatives,” said De Lyle Bloomquist, President and CEO. “I am also looking forward to working with Michael as RYAM realizes its Biofuture by developing and manufacturing sustainable solutions for our customers. His chemical industry experience is very well aligned with the future direction of RYAM.”

Osborne indicated, “This is an incredible opportunity to join a company focused on producing sustainable products in a safe and reliable way. I look forward to picking up where Bill left the organization and moving forward with the manufacturing team.”

About RYAM

RYAM is a global leader of cellulose-based technologies, including high purity cellulose specialties, a natural polymer commonly found in filters, food, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial applications. The Company also manufactures products for paper and packaging markets. With manufacturing operations in the U.S., Canada, and France, RYAM employs approximately 2,500 people and generated an estimated $1.7 billion of revenues in 2022. More information is available at www.RYAM.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230410005020/en/

Media

Ryan Houck

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Investors

Mickey Walsh

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Source: Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc.

FAQ

Who is the new Vice President of Manufacturing at RYAM?

Michael Osborne has been appointed as the new Vice President of Manufacturing at Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (RYAM).

When did Michael Osborne join RYAM?

Michael Osborne joined Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. on April 10, 2023.

What is the role of Bill Manzer at RYAM before his retirement?

Bill Manzer has served as EVP, Manufacturing at RYAM and will assist in the transition until March 2024.

What is RYAM's revenue for 2022?

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. reported approximately $1.7 billion in revenue for the year 2022.

What is RYAM's focus with its Biofuture initiative?

RYAM's Biofuture initiative aims to develop and manufacture sustainable solutions for its customers.