March 27, 2017 - After 53 years of leading Heidtman Steel, primarily as CEO, John C. Bates Sr. is transitioning the role of CEO to Tim Berra while he continues in his role as Chairman of the company.
March 27, 2017 - After 53 years of leading Heidtman Steel, primarily as CEO, John C. Bates Sr. is transitioning the role of CEO to Tim Berra while he continues in his role as Chairman of the company. Heidtman is one of North America’s largest steel service center networks with 650 employees and revenues of approximately $700 million. “I am proud of the innovative growth and success that we have enjoyed. Given the positive market conditions and strength of our organization, we feel now is a good time to implement the succession plan that we have been developing for several years,” said Bates.
Bates has received significant industry recognition over his career, including being named Service Center Executive of the Year by Metal Center News in 2013. When speaking about the transition, Bates said, “I have great confidence in Tim and our leadership team, and know that they will continue our success well into the future. They are skilled, determined and passionate about our industry and our company.”
Tim Berra will move into the role of CEO effective April 1st, while retaining his role as president. Tim has served Heidtman for 23 years. Starting as an Account Manager, he transitioned through several sales and management positions. He was Vice President of Heidtman’s Western Region before being named President of the company in 2004. When referring to his new position, Berra said, “I have big shoes to fill in that John has been a dynamic leader, not just for Heidtman, but for the entire industry. We are fortunate that John will still be available to support us in this transition.”
In an additional facet of the succession plan, John Bates, Jr. will increase his leadership responsibilities by assuming the positon of VP of Commercial. His will oversee sales, purchasing and resource planning. John started his career with Heidtman 22 years ago, and has held positions of increasing responsibility in production, applications, steel purchasing and sales, and resource planning.
