Kibar Americas Welcomes Derek Keddy as New President to Propel Growth Strategy

Kibar Americas Welcomes Derek Keddy as President

Kibar Americas, a prominent name in flat-rolled aluminum products across North America and a subsidiary of Assan Alüminyum from Türkiye, has announced the appointment of Derek Keddy as the new President of its North America Rolling Business Unit. This strategic move is part of the company’s vision to enhance its growth trajectory and operational efficiencies following its recent acquisition of an aluminum foil production facility situated in Fairmont, West Virginia.

Derek Keddy, who brings over 25 years of extensive leadership experience in the aluminum and manufacturing sectors, has a solid record in fostering business performance and driving strategic growth initiatives. His expertise spans across various key areas, including financial strategy, business transformation, and managing mergers and acquisitions. Before joining Kibar, Keddy held significant executive roles at Novelis, where he spearheaded profitable growth and operational performance enhancements.

"Derek's appointment signifies our unwavering commitment to expanding in North America and strengthening our presence in the aluminum sector," stated Göksal Güngör, Chair of Kibar Americas Group. He expressed confidence that Keddy's leadership will propel the company into its next phase of growth.

Atilla Cetinel, COO of Kibar Americas Group, echoed these sentiments by stating, "We are delighted to have Derek on board during this crucial time in our journey towards expansion. His deep industry knowledge and strategic insight will be key as we look towards increasing our market footprint and operational capabilities with the Fairmont facility."

The acquisition of the Fairmont plant marks a pivotal step for Kibar Americas, allowing the company to broaden its manufacturing capabilities and fortify its standing within the North American aluminum market. The facility is on track to commence operations, with plans to ramp up production significantly in the latter half of the year, addressing the growing demand from customers.

Derek Keddy’s collaborative approach and adeptness in both commercial and operational landscapes are expected to be instrumental in the successful launch of the Fairmont facility, as well as in fulfilling Kibar Americas' long-term growth aspirations. Keddy, who holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from University College Dublin and an Executive MBA from Emory University's Goizueta Business School, is poised to leverage his expertise in aligning the newly acquired plant’s operations with the company’s overarching strategic objectives.

As Kibar Americas embraces this new chapter under Keddy's leadership, the company looks forward to a future marked by innovation, operational excellence, and a robust growth trajectory in the aluminum production landscape. With a focus on enhancing customer relations and operational efficiencies, Kedar's leadership is set to bring forth a new era of achievement for Kibar Americas.