Metallus (NYSE: MTUS) appoints new COO and CFO

Metallus (MTUS), a leader in high-quality specialty metals, manufactured components and supply chain solutions, today announced that Kristopher R. Westbrooks has been promoted to the newly created role of president and chief operating officer and John M. Zaranec III has been appointed as the company’s executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective June 16, 2025. Both executives will report directly to Mike Williams, Metallus’ chief executive officer.

As president and chief operating officer, Westbrooks will lead Metallus’ safety, manufacturing operations and excellence, and supply chain organizations, fostering cross-functional collaboration and operational excellence. He will drive alignment with the company’s strategic initiatives while supporting its growth objectives.

Westbrooks has served as the company’s chief financial officer since September 2018 and has been a pivotal part of Metallus’ transformation over the past several years. Prior to joining Metallus, Westbrooks was with A. Schulman, Inc., where he served as vice president, chief accounting officer and corporate controller. Westbrooks started his career in public accounting and graduated from Miami University.

“Over the past seven years, Kris has played an instrumental role in our company’s growth, consistently providing outstanding leadership and strategic guidance. His ability to build high-performing teams, combined with his expertise in financial strategy and deep understanding of our business, has strengthened our balance sheet—enhancing our flexibility to drive growth and navigate economic challenges. Under his leadership, we have established a strong foundation that positions us for continued success,” said Mike Williams.

Zaranec brings over 20 years of financial experience and skills in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. Most recently, he served as division chief financial officer at Materion Corporation, leading the finance strategy and function for the Performance Materials segment. Before that, he held various leadership roles at Materion, including chief accounting officer, corporate controller, and head of investor relations. His experience also includes finance leadership at The Timken Company. Prior to transitioning into industry, he spent nearly a decade in public accounting. Zaranec holds a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in accountancy from Miami University.