Appointment of New Group Chief Financial Officer

Smurfit Kappa Group announces that Mr Ian Curley, has informed the Board of his intention to step down as Group Chief Financial Officer and Director on 31 March 2016.

The Board has appointed Mr Ken Bowles, Group Financial Controller, as Group Chief Financial Officer Designate to succeed Mr Curley on 1 April 2016.

Liam O’Mahony, SKG Chairman, commented: “On behalf of the Board, we express our gratitude to Ian for his significant contribution to the successful development of the Group during his time with the Group and in particular the past 16 years as Chief Financial Officer. We wish him well for the future.”

Tony Smurfit, Group CEO, added: "Ian, together with his team, has been central to the successful repositioning of the Group. This has provided the Group with financial flexibility to invest in the business and to capitalise on growth opportunities. We thank him for his strong contribution to the successful evolution of Smurfit Kappa and wish him well in his future endeavours.”

“We are pleased to have an executive of Ken Bowles’ calibre to succeed Ian as Group Chief Financial Officer. Ken has held a number of senior financial roles in the Group and has been central to the strong performance of the broader corporate and finance team over the last number of years.”

Ian Curley concluded: “The Group is in a strong position today with a broad range of strategic and financial options. I am confident Tony, Ken and the team will continue the successful development of the Group.”