In an announcement Thursday, the company said the leadership change was effective 1 January. Huffman has been with the company since 2003 and was named chief operating officer in 2015. 

“It has been, and continues to be, a great honor to be a part of this company. Ellwood’s team of hardworking, creative and dedicated employees is second to none. I am confident that our collective efforts will advance Ellwood as we endeavor to be the world’s leading low-cost, high-quality producer of specialty materials and engineered components,” Huffman said. 

Barensfeld, who served as president chief executive of Ellwood Group and as president of predecessor entity Ellwood City Forge, will continue to serve as board chairman. He is the controlling shareholder of the business. 

He said Huffman is highly qualified for his new role. 

“Ben Huffman will be an excellent leader for our company going forward,” he said. 

“During his time at Ellwood, Ben has learned in depth about all our plants and operations — melting, forging, heat-treating, machining, and distribution; our employees and customers; and the industries they serve. He excels in his commercial role and brings excellent planning, strategic and organizational skills to his new job.”  

The transition comes as the company prepares to open a new vacuum arc and electro-slag remelt shop in New Castle, Pa., this winter, and as it readies its new aluminum casthouse in Hubbard, Ohio, for operation.