One year ago, Wolfgang Eder (63) took over the office of Chairman of the World Steel Association – the first Austrian to do so. Now he has been nominated for another term; the formal appointment was made at the Board meeting. “Naturally, we are delighted. This is also a distinction for our company and a mandate to consistently continue the successful collaboration of worldsteel members within the association in a challenging time,” states Wolfgang Eder. “In the last 15 years, voestalpine has developed from being a “classic” steel company to one of the global technology and innovation leaders in the processing of high-quality steel as well as other materials. Being oriented toward quality products instead of mass production is increasingly important for the industry, especially in the more mature economies,” says Eder.
According to the association’s rules, as Incoming Vice Chairman in 2014, Vice Chairman André Gerdau Johannpeter, CEO of the Brazilian steel manufacturer Gerdau S.A., had been designated to succeed Eder. He requested to be released from taking over the office, as he would like to concentrate fully on the challenges of the Brazilian market, which is so important for his company. John Ferriola, CEO of the Nucor Corporation, USA, was appointed as the new Vice Chairman.