Norske Skog has named Andrew Leighton as regional president Australasia, with Andrew McKean taking on his former position as sales, marketing and logistics vice president. The appointment – effective from August 19 – was announced by senior vice president Rune Gjessing. Leighton (47) originally worked in Canada for Catalyst Paper as director of business development and has been with Fletcher Challenge/Norske Skog for more than 15 years, predominantly in sales and marketing roles. For the last seven, he was vice president for sales, marketing and logistics in Australasia and in that capacity has recently completed the renewal of the major AA customer contracts. He holds a BA in economics and an MBA from the Ivey School of Business in Canada. His predecessor, Peter Chrisp has left Norske Skog, returning home to New Zealand to become chief executive of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. Andrew McKean was at News Limited for 12 years, where he managed the account team. “He brings a strong background in sales and logistics management, and a proven track record in high level account management and contract negotiation/management,” says Leighton. “The market environment for newsprint is very challenging at the moment, with our historically strong market position in Australasia under threat from both overseas competitors and from the digital media. I am confident he brings the high level of leadership, business acumen and experience that will be required to enable Norske Skog Australasia to succeed in this difficult environment.” Senior business advisor Ruth Gibson will now report directly to Leighton to facilitate an increased focus on regional financial analysis and reporting.