Universal Stainless & Alloy Products, Inc. announced that it has taken the next step in its leadership succession plan with the naming of Christopher M. Zimmer as President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Zimmer has also been appointed to the Board of Directors. The transition is effective November 1st. Mr. Zimmer succeeds Dennis M. Oates in those roles. Mr. Oates takes on the newly-established role of Executive Chairman of Universal.
Mr. Zimmer is a 15-year veteran of Universal. He joined the Company in 2008 as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, became Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer in 2014, and assumed the post of Chief Operating Officer in April 2023. As COO, he has been responsible for manufacturing, technology, and quality organizations as well as sales, marketing and supply chain management and development.
As Executive Chairman, Mr. Oates will continue to play a key role within the Board of Directors. Additionally, with his deep commitment to Universal, his long track record of achievement and his high regard within the specialty steel industry, Mr. Oates will focus on a smooth transition and longer-term strategic issues.
Courtesy of Universal Stainless & Alloy Products.