New President for New Zealand Steel

13 June 2007

BlueScope Steel announces new President for New Zealand Steel

BlueScope Steel has announced Mr Ross Murray, President Iron and Slab at Port Kembla Steelworks would succeed Mr Bill Jacob as President New Zealand Steel and Pacific Islands, effective 1 July 2007. Mr Jacob will be returning to the United States to take up the role of President Northstar BlueScope Steel based in Delta, Ohio.

Commenting on his departure, Mr Jacob said, .I have appreciated the opportunity of leading this fine organisation for the past four years. If asked to describe New Zealand Steel in one word it would be .unique. . unique for its operation process but more importantly, unique for the strength of its people. New Zealand Steel has some of the best steelmakers in the world with a drive and passion to beat the odds and make the business a success.. .

My four years with New Zealand Steel have been the most challenging and personally rewarding of my career, and I take many positive experiences and key learnings from this New Zealand experience to my new role in the United States,. he added.

The past few years have seen the fortunes of New Zealand Steel and its future prospects change dramatically. In 2003 the Board of BlueScope Steel confirmed the continuation of the iron and steel making operations. This meant that New Zealand Steel would continue as a fully integrated steelmaking business rather than become a secondary processor of imported steel.

While the future is not without its challenges, I believe New Zealand Steel is now strongly positioned for further growth and to make a significant contribution to the economic well being of this country. I.ve known Ross Murray for four years as a colleague and a friend and he is an excellent leader with over 30 years experience in the steel industry. I am confident that he is the right person to lead New Zealand Steel and the Pacific Islands business with growth and prosperity,. Mr Jacob concluded.

ENDS

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