Metal Exchange names new CEO

Matt Rohm, current president and chief operating officer, will become CEO effective Jan. 1.

a white man stands in an office with his arms cross over his chest
Matt Rhom will become CEO of Metal Exchange Jan. 1, 2023.
Photo courtesy of Metal Exchange

St. Louis-based nonferrous metal trading and manufacturing company Metal Exchange Corp., has announced Matt Rohm, its current president and chief operating officer (COO), will be promoted to CEO on Jan. 1. Current CEO Rick Merluzzi will assume the title of executive vice chairman, serving as an advisor to Executive Chairman Mike Lefton on key strategic initiatives through the end of 2023.

As CEO Rohm will be responsible for total business performance, with strategic oversight of all divisions and operating companies, spanning the full breadth of the Metal Exchange portfolio and all corporate services departments.

Lefton says, "We are excited to announce Matt Rohm as Rick’s successor. He is a veteran executive with a proven track record of effective and strategic leadership resulting from his immense experience, and we expect a seamless transition. We are confident that Matt will continue to advance Metal Exchange’s position as an industry leader.”

Prior to being named president and COO earlier this year, Rohm joined Metal Exchange as chief financial officer in 2016. He previously accrued more than 20 years of financial and operational leadership experience, having served in positions with The Boeing Co., Anheuser-Busch InBev, Energizer and SunEdison. Rohm holds a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering from Bradley University and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis’ Olin School of Business.

“It is an honor to be asked to lead a world-class, sustainable corporation,” Rohm says. “Metal Exchange is well-positioned for continued growth, and I am proud to serve our customers, suppliers and team members as we work together to impact our world.”

Lefton adds, "On behalf of Metal Exchange's board of directors, I'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Rick for his more than 17 years of service, which included executive leadership roles at both Pennex Aluminum Co. and Metal Exchange. During his tenure, Rick has led numerous successful growth initiatives, including multiple acquisitions and facility expansions. Most importantly, he has made these achievements while reinforcing our values-driven culture and earning the admiration and respect of our employees, customers and partners.”

Merluzzi says, "I am honored to have led Metal Exchange as its CEO and am grateful for the many opportunities and experiences I've had throughout my career. I am exceedingly proud of our employees and their unwavering commitment to both our values and our customers. Given the strength of our people and their dedication to our culture and purpose, I believe Metal Exchange is well-positioned to grow and thrive for years to come."

Founded in 1974, Metal Exchange Corp. and its family of companies are industry leaders in nonferrous metals, including marketing, purchasing, supply management, risk management, manufacturing and processing operations. Metal Exchange operates eight manufacturing facilities in North America as well as a joint venture in Italy. The company has marketing and sales offices in St. Louis as well as international offices in Zurich, Shanghai and Singapore. Its operating companies include Metal Exchange Cast Products, Pennex Aluminum Co. and Electro Cycle Inc.