Packaging group Smurfit Kappa has announced a new management shake-up with Roberto Villaquairan appointed as chief executive of its European operations.

Mr Villaquairan, who is currently chief executive for the group's Corrugated Europe division, will assume the new role from tomorrow. He will have overall responsibility for the existing European paper and corrugated divisions and is to report directly to group executive Tony Smurfit.

Separately, Laurent Sellier has been appointed to the new role of chief operating officer of the group's European paper division while Saverio Mayer is to assume the same role at the group's Corrugated Europe division.

"We expect our new European structure to contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and development of our business. Performance reflects both the quality of your team and the strength of your business model. We believe the strength of our team and our unique culture will continue to define our business and to drive superior performance," Mr Smufit.