CANTON – Metallus CEO Mike Williams has announced plans to retire at the end of this year.
Williams, who joined the Canton-based specialty metal manufacturer at the start of 2021, has informed the board of directors that he will step down on Dec. 31 from his position as CEO and board member. The board appointed Kristopher R. Westbrooks, current president and chief operating officer of Metallus, to fill the lead role and join the board of directors at the start of the year.
"Kris has earned the trust and respect of colleagues across our organization and with customers and suppliers in the industry through his integrity and firm commitment to continuous improvement," Williams said Aug. 31 in a prepared statement. "He navigates complex challenges with a long-term perspective, balancing strategic vision with disciplined execution. Having worked closely with Kris for many years, I am confident in his ability to advance our strategy, strengthen our position, and drive future growth."
Williams will serve as a special adviser to Westbrooks through June.
Ronald A. Rice, the company's board chairman, thanked Williams for his leadership.
"During Mike's tenure, Metallus has executed a significant transformation focused on enhancing profitability through commercial and operational excellence, disciplined capital allocation, and expanding its presence in higher-growth markets, including aerospace and defense, while continuing to support our long-standing automotive, industrial, energy and distribution customers," he said in a prepared statement.
Rice also praised Westbrooks for helping to position the company for "continued success."
"Since joining the company in 2018, Kris has been a strategic partner in shaping our direction, strengthening our financial position, and advancing our operational strategy and long-term growth objectives," he said.
Westbrooks held senior finance and accounting roles at A. Schulman Inc. and The Procter & Gamble Co. before joining Metallus in September 2018. He started as executive vice president and chief financial officer at Metallus and was promoted in June 2025 to his current role.
Reach Kelly at 330-580-8323 or [email protected].
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Metallus CEO Mike Williams to retire at end of year