Jim Leng has decided to step down as Chairman of Tata Steel Europe (Corus) on 30th March. He joined the Board of Corus Group plc in June 2001 as a non-executive Director, becoming Deputy Chairman and Senior Independent Director in April 2002 and Chairman in June 2003.
The new Chairman of Tata Steel Europe will be Andrew Robb. Mr Robb is a former Finance Director of Pilkington plc. He became a non-executive Director of Corus Group plc in 2003 and of Tata Steel Limited in 2007.
Ratan Tata, Chairman of the Tata Group, said: “Since our acquisition of Corus two years ago Jim Leng has been a hugely important figure in the process of bringing Corus into the Tata Family. We wish him well in all his future endeavours.”
Philippe Varin, Corus CEO, said: “Jim persuaded me to join Corus six years ago. We have had an extraordinarily exciting and rewarding time working together and I have greatly appreciated his wise counsel and support during my time with Corus and Tata Steel Group.”
Jim Leng said: “After eight years on the Corus Board and five years as Chairman I’ve made the decision to move on. I feel this is an appropriate time, two years into the integration phase following the takeover. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Corus and leave with unique experiences, fond memories and many friends.
“I am also delighted to be able to hand over the reins to Andrew Robb, a long-time friend and colleague.”