Schmitt has headed the Americas division and has served as a member of SSAB’s group executive committee since 2011.

“I am extremely proud of the SSAB that we have built and the success we have created together,” Schmitt said in a statement. 

“We have a strong financial position and an industry-leading safety performance, and we are at the forefront of innovation and the green transformation. I now look forward to sharing more time with family but will continue to follow SSAB’s journey and my friends and colleagues from a distance.”

Schmitt’s SSAB career dates to 1990 when he joined the U.S.-based IPSCO, which was later acquired by SSAB. Schmitt, who was named AIST’s 2024 Steelmaker of the Year, is a past vice chairman and past chairman of the American Iron and Steel Institute. 

“Chuck Schmitt has been an outspoken leader in the steel industry. He has helped raise the industry’s profile on trade, energy, infrastructure, sustainability and ensuring steel remains the backbone of the manufacturing sector,” said AISI president and chief executive officer Kevin Dempsey. 

“His unwavering commitment to issues impacting the future of the American steel industry has helped keep our vital industry strong. His contributions and dedication to the industry have been a role model for us all. It is a privilege to have worked with Chuck for more than 14 years, and I am proud to call him a friend.”