Moscow. Nov 12, 2009. /Lesprom Network/. Christian Rynning-Tønnesen has informed the Board of Directors of Norske Skog that he will resign his position as CEO. He has been appointed CEO of Statkraft from June 1, 2010, Norske Skog said in a press release received by Lesprom Network.

"I regret that Christian Rynning-Tønnesen will be leaving Norske Skog. He has made an outstanding effort as CEO in what has been a very demanding period for the group. The Board will meet shortly to begin the process of recruiting his successor," says Eivind Reiten, Chairman of the Board.

Christian Rynning-Tønnesen was hired by Norske Skog early 2005 as CFO and was appointed CEO in June 2006. Under his leadership, Norske Skog has implemented comprehensive measures to reduce debt and improve the group's cost position.

"I have had an exciting period with Norske Skog, working with a competent and tenacious organisation that has worked hard to strengthen the company in a difficult market. Key challenges remain, and it will be difficult to leave the company. I have nevertheless accepted what for me is a unique opportunity to lead Statkraft, a company I was part of for 13 years before joining Norske Skog," says Christian Rynning-Tønnesen.