AF&PA appoints vice president

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has announced the promotion of Andrew Topps as the next vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary, following the retirement of longtime AF&PA leader Jan Poling.

The Washington-based organization says Topps will assume his new role Sept. 1.

"Andrew is an excellent choice to continue leading AF&PA's legal team while we collectively advance our industry's sustainability story," President and CEO Heidi Brock says. "His skills, experience and leadership make him the person best suited to take on this important role."

Topps will be responsible for the association's legal affairs and governance issues and providing overall direction of the association as a member of the senior leadership team. He joined AF&PA's legal team in 2010 where he currently serves as deputy general counsel.

His prior experience includes nine years representing private law firm clients in federal and state agency antitrust investigations and litigation, as well as spending three years with the Federal Trade Commission. In his time at AF&PA, the group says Topps has helped formulate and implement its approach to various issues, including antitrust compliance, key environmental issues, employment law, lobbying guidance and corporate compliance.

AF&PA also says that in addition to his legal work, Topps' facilitation of the association's Diversity Equity Inclusion & Belonging Team has enhanced its work environment and strengthened the overall association.

Poling first joined AF&PA in 2007 and has been responsible for the group's legal affairs, governance issues and guidance in overall direction for the association. She previously served as associate general counsel for natural resources at the U.S. Department of Agriculture before joining AF&PA.

"Jan has been an incredible leader throughout her 15 years of service to AF&PA," Brock says. "We congratulate her on a remarkable career and wish her the very best in this next chapter."