Australian steelmaker BlueScope Steel has announced a new consolidated organization structure to serve the Australian and New Zealand market for flat steel under a consolidated trans-Tasman unit forged from three existing business units.
Announcing the new organization, BlueScope managing director and CEO Mr. Paul O'Malley said the new business will deliver an improved sales and marketing effort, and better integrated customer service. "Externally, the priority focus is to compete against imported steel and fast track the growth of our business in key sectors such as building and construction. Internally, the focus is on integrating business support functions," he said, adding, "Key Australian market segments will continue to be served directly by our Lysaght and BlueScope Distribution businesses."
The company pointed out that a detailed implementation plan will be announced in due course.
Senior appointments
Meanwhile, BlueScope has appointed Mark Vassella, who is currently president of BlueScope North America, as chief executive of BlueScope Australia and New Zealand.
Noel Cornish will retire as chief executive of the company's steel manufacturing businesses from the beginning of August, when he will join the board of the North Star BlueScope Steel joint venture.
Bluescope's Australian Coated and Industrial Markets chief executive Paul O'Keefe will lead the transition to the new organization structure and integration of management and support functions.
Keith Mitchelhill, currently chief executive of Australian Distribution and Solutions, will replace Mark Vassella as president of BlueScope North America.
Pat Finan, executive general manager for Global Building and Construction Markets, will take on responsibility for the Ranbuild, Kiteley, Highline, BlueScope Water and BlueScope Buildings Australia businesses, all in Australia, in addition to his responsibilities for Bluescope's global building and construction business.