Jon Bolton appointed Chairman of Materials Processing Institute
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 26TH APRIL 2021
Steel industry expert Jon Bolton has been appointed as Chairman of UK-based research and innovation centre, the Materials Processing Institute.
He replaces retiring Chairman Bob Ruddlestone, who will continue his long association with the Institute by remaining as an Executive Consultant to advise on ongoing capital development and capability enhancement projects.
Jon has more than 40 years’ experience in the steel sector, he has led steelmaking and downstream facilities in the UK, USA and Europe, including as senior executive with British Steel, Corus, Tata Steel and Liberty Steel. Jon is internationally recognised as an advocate for the steel and metals sector and since 2020 he has been advising steel and metals sector companies globally as an industry consultant.
He has also worked closely with the UK Government both as Chairman of the UK Steel trade association and as the first Chairman of the UK Metals Council. He has also co-chaired the UK Steel Council with the Secretary of State, providing strategic leadership.
Jon has also partnered with many leading companies to undertake research projects and remains a champion for the mass adoption of zero carbon green steel.
In 2019, he was presented with the Bessemer Gold Medal by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining for his outstanding services to the steel industry.
Chris McDonald, the Chief Executive of the Materials Processing Institute, said: “We are indeed fortunate to have attracted a globally recognised leader in the steel and metals sector as our Chairman.
“Jon has enjoyed a long and distinguished career and continues to be sought after as an industry consultant, advocating the move towards zero carbon steelmaking.
“He has a reputation for strong and sound leadership and is perfectly aligned to the Institute’s aim of transforming the sector through research and innovation.”
“I’d also like to thank outgoing Chairman Bob Ruddlestone for his valuable contributions and insight over the past six years, and I’m delighted that he is continuing his long association with the Institute.”
Jon Bolton said: “I’m honoured to be appointed Chairman of the Institute, which I have had a long association with, and which is recognised as a global centre for the innovation, development and commercialisation of technology. Steel underpins virtually every aspect of our lives and I hope to be part of the Institute’s mission to reshape the sector, making it relevant to a modern, low carbon economy.”
Bob Ruddlestone added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Chairman, and I’m pleased to welcome such a distinguished figure as Jon to the role and look forward to continuing to support both him and the Institute.”
26 April 2021
