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2025 Panel Discussions

Adhesives

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Venla Hemmilä, PhD

Material & Technology Engineer—Adhesives

IKEA

Venla Hemmilä has been with IKEA for over 11 years. She started as a project leader and later transitioned to the role of Material and Technology Engineer. As the material owner for adhesives and glues used in wooden furniture, she is responsible for establishing quality standards and shaping the future direction of these materials, all while aligning with the IKEA sustainability goals.

Venla has a PhD in wood science and technology, specializing in formaldehyde emissions and bio-based adhesives. Her in-depth knowledge of the topic significantly contributes to IKEA’s efforts in developing adhesives that enhance the durability of its furniture while supporting the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Matyas Kosa

West Fraser

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Jeff MacDonald

Chief Executive Officer

EcoSynthetix

In addition to his role as Chief Executive Officer at EcoSynthetix, Jeff MacDonald also serves on the company's Board of Directors. EcoSynthetix, a Toronto Stock Exchange-listed company, offers a range of sustainable engineered biopolymers that are used to manufacture wood composite panels, as well as personal care paper, tissue and packaging products, enabling safer solutions, performance improvements, economic benefits and carbon footprint reduction.  

 

Before joining EcoSynthetix, Jeff had over 15 years of executive leadership experience in various roles, including operations, business development, and marketing. He spent the majority of his career as part of the executive team at Husky Technologies, a leading manufacturer of equipment and services for the plastics industry, with more than $1 billion in annual sales. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from McMaster University and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Western Ontario. Jeff is an avid adventurer and aspiring photographer.

Engineered Wood Products

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Bruno Gorrini, PhD

R&D Manager Wood Division  

Arauco

Wolfgang Stahl

Group Technical Manager

Laminex​

Georgios Gkorogias

Finsa​

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