AZZ Inc. Appoints New Leaders to Drive Growth and Innovation in Coating Solutions

Leadership Changes at AZZ Inc.

On January 23, 2025, AZZ Inc. made a significant announcement regarding its leadership team, signaling a strong commitment to growth and innovation within the metal coatings industry. Starting March 1, 2025, Jeff Vellines will step into the role of President and Chief Operating Officer of the Precoat Metals division, a strategic move following his consistent ascension within the company. Meanwhile, Kurt Russell, previously leading Precoat Metals, will now serve as Senior Vice President and Chief Strategic Officer, focusing on the company's growth initiatives.

Backgrounds of the New Leaders

Jeff Vellines has been with Precoat Metals since 2011, initially taking on the role of Director of Strategic Planning. His leadership skills and strategic insight were integral during the integration of Roll Coater—a pivotal acquisition for Precoat—under his direction. Vellines climbed through various important roles, including Vice President of Sales in 2013 and later as Senior Vice President overseeing all Commercial Operations. His most recent role was as President of AZZ Precoat Metals, a position he has held since early 2024. Vellines holds a BA in Communications from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.

Kurt Russell brings a wealth of experience in the metal coatings field. His leadership over the years at AZZ Precoat Metals has been marked by success and innovation, making his transition into the newly created Chief Strategic Officer position a vital alteration in AZZ’s strategy to grow aggressively within the coatings market.

Emphasis on Growth

Tom Ferguson, AZZ’s CEO, expressed excitement over these leadership changes. He emphasized that Kurt Russell’s vast experience and proven track record will support the company's objective to expand its footprint in the coatings sector. Vellines's expanded role now includes responsibilities previously held by Russell, underscoring the company's trust in his capabilities and vision.

Both appointments reflect AZZ's commitment to nurturing leadership talent and ensuring the execution of strategic plans that aim to bolster the company’s market presence. The changes come at a crucial time when the coatings industry is undergoing transformations that require robust leadership to navigate complexities and seize emerging opportunities.

Overview of AZZ Inc.

AZZ Inc. operates as a leading independent provider of hot-dip galvanizing and coil coating solutions across North America. The company's innovative technologies and commitment to quality have positioned it as a key player in the metal coatings field. With new leadership at the helm, AZZ aims not just to uphold its standards but also to enhance them through strategic initiatives and adaptations to market demands. As the company embarks on this new chapter, industry stakeholders and customers can expect continued dedication to excellence and growth in product offerings.

The journey ahead looks promising, with both Vellines and Russell poised to make meaningful impacts within the company and the broader industry landscape.

Looking Ahead

AZZ Inc.’s recent leadership appointments highlight a proactive approach to securing its position within the competitive landscape of the coatings industry. The company's strategic initiatives under Vellines's leadership, paired with Russell's focus on strategic direction, set a solid foundation for future growth. Stakeholders can anticipate exciting developments as these capable leaders steer the company through evolving market dynamics and unlock new potential for success.