Service Centers
James Bouchard To Retire as Esmark CEO
Written by Laura Miller
October 17, 2023
After more than 40 years in the steel industry, James Bouchard announced he will be retiring as CEO of Esmark Inc., effective Nov. 23.
Bouchard will continue to serve as Esmark’s chairman of the board. He will also remain on as chairman of Ohio Coatings Co., the joint venture between Esmark Steel Group and TCC Steel.
Bouchard founded Esmark Inc. in 2003 when the Bouchard Group transferred all its steel assets to Esmark. The Bouchard Group, established in 1995, is the controlling shareholder of Esmark Inc. James Bouchard serves as chairman and CEO of the Bouchard Group.
“I’ve been in the steel industry for more than 40 years, and now is the time to step away from the day-to-day operations and empower the next generation of leadership. It’s also time for me to focus on my health and spend more time with family,” Bouchard explained.
Esmark’s EVP and CFO Randy Stanton will serve as acting CEO, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company, also effective Nov. 23, until a permanent successor is found. Stanton has been with Esmark since 2013.
The United Steelworkers’ International President David McCall congratulated Bouchard on his retirement: “The USW commends Mr. Bouchard for his extensive work in steel, and in particular applauds his longstanding commitment to the domestic industry and his positive relationship with our union. We wish him a long and happy retirement.”
Esmark Inc. is a privately held family company with roots in the steel industry. The Esmark Steel Group is a flat-rolled steel processor and distributor with locations in Chicago, Ohio, and South Carolina.
Laura Miller
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