Metallus CEO Mike Williams to Retire; Westbrooks to Succeed
Metal Recycling News | 2026-09-02 11:05:04
Williams will step down from both his CEO role and position on the Metallus board on December 31, 2026. However, he will remain as a special advisor to the CEO and board through June 30, 2027.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Metallus, a Canton, OH-based leading manufacturer of high-performance specialty metals from recycled scrap metal, has announced a leadership transition.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer Michael S. Williams is set to retire at the end of 2026. Kristopher R. Westbrooks, the company's current president and chief operating officer, will take over as president and CEO effective January 1, 2027, said a company news release.
Williams will step down from both his CEO role and position on the Metallus board on December 31, 2026. However, he will remain as a special advisor to the CEO and board through June 30, 2027.
The company said the change follows a detailed succession planning process in line with its long-term growth strategy.
Under Williams' leadership, Metallus focused on improving profitability, strengthening operations and applying tighter discipline to capital spending. The company also expanded its business in faster-growing markets, particularly aerospace and defense, while continuing to serve customers in automotive, industrial, energy and distribution sectors.
Westbrooks joined Metallus in 2018 and has played a key role in developing the company's financial and operating strategies.
Metallus Chairman Ronald A. Rice praised Williams' contributions and said Westbrooks' experience and leadership will guide the company into its next phase of growth.
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What is the most important factor behind Metallus' leadership transition?
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will Michael S. Williams retire from Metallus?
Michael S. Williams is scheduled to retire at the end of 2026. He will step down as CEO and from the Metallus board on December 31, 2026, but will continue serving as a special advisor to the CEO and board through June 30, 2027, supporting the leadership transition.
- Who will succeed Williams as Metallus CEO?
Kristopher R. Westbrooks, Metallus' current president and chief operating officer, will become president and CEO effective January 1, 2027. Westbrooks joined the company in 2018 and has played a significant role in developing its financial and operational strategies.
- What were some of the key achievements under Williams' leadership?
Williams focused on improving profitability, strengthening manufacturing operations and exercising greater discipline over capital expenditures. Metallus also expanded into faster-growing markets, particularly aerospace and defense, while maintaining its presence in automotive, industrial, energy and distribution markets.
