The Washington trade group for steep producers has elected Gerdau Long Steel North America PR exec Philip Bell as president.

Bell, who directs external communications and public affairs for Gerdau, will take the reins of the Steel Manufacturers Association on Nov. 1.

Current president Thomas Danjczek is retiring after 15 years.

In addition to Brazl-based Gerdau, the top long steel producer in North America, he held PR and operations posts at SGL Carbon, Qualitech Steel and Elemetis Chromium.

The SMA counts 34 North American producers as members, accounting for more than 75% of domestic steel production.