David Backus has been named Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, for Bulkley Dunton, a business of xpedx and International Paper. Backus will report jointly to Dan Watkoske, executive vice president, Sales, xpedx, and George Doehner, president, Bulkley Dunton.

In his new senior leadership position, Backus will be responsible for developing and implementing a vision, strategy and objectives for growing the Bulkley Dunton business. He will also work closely with sales and marketing to develop effective sales tools, as well as cultivate relationships with key suppliers.

“David brings a wealth of expertise and vision to help ensure Bulkley Dunton remains a publishing leader as the business consistently grows opportunities with customers,” said Watkoske. “George and I welcome David’s leadership to Bulkley Dunton and xpedx as he helps our enterprise navigate through several dynamic markets to reach another level of ‘best-in-class’ performance.”

Backus brings nearly 20 years of paper industry experience to his new role with Bulkley Dunton. Most recently, Backus was with A.T. Clayton & Co. where he held roles of increasing responsibility, ultimately serving as senior vice president since January 2009.

Prior to A.T. Clayton, Backus was a sales executive with Appleton Coated Papers and before that, the former Champion International Corporation.

Backus will be based at Bulkley Dunton’s headquarters in New York City.