Alcoa's Christopher retires, Jarrault named successor

Aluminum maker Alcoa named Olivier Jarrault president of Alcoa Engineered Products and Solutions, effective Jan. 1, the company said Wednesday.

Jarrault will replace William F. Christopher, who is retiring April 1 after more than 30 years with the company. Currently, Jarrault is COO of Alcoa Engineered Products and Building Systems.

As president of engineered products and solutions, Jarrault will oversee six business units, including fastening systems, power and propulsion and oil and gas, the company said. He will also become a member of the executive council, which sets the strategic direction for the company.

Jarrault has been with Alcoa since 2002; he has held his current position since February.

“Bill has been a good friend and trusted partner to me, and a wise counselor to many Alcoans over his 35-year career,” said Klaus Kleinfeld, Alcoa Chairman and CEO, in a written statement about Christopher’s retirement. “Fortunately, we have an outstanding leader ready to succeed Bill. Olivier has built a reputation as an action-oriented leader who is respected by customers and employees and known for delivering strong financial performance. I look forward to him joining my lead team.”

Starting Jan. 1, Christopher will serve as Chairman’s Counsel, where he will continue to help guide growth initiatives and remain a member of the Technology Advantage Steering Council.

Alcoa （NYSE: AA） is based in New York but has substantial operations in Pittsburgh's North Shore neighborhood. In October, the company reported third quarter profit of $61 million, or 6 cents per share, on sales of $5.3 billion.