Steel supplier appoints SVP

Steel supplier appoints SVP

Joe Poot. Courtesy Mill Steel Company

A local distributor of flat-rolled carbon steel has promoted an executive to the role of senior vice president.

Grand Rapids-based Mill Steel Company said last month it appointed Joe Poot, former VP of purchasing, to the role, effective immediately.

He will be responsible for managing all of the company’s construction business units.

David Samrick, CEO and chairman of Mill Steel Company, said Poot is highly qualified for the position.

“We have always put our people first, which has yielded a high-performing team and requires we recognize individuals for their contributions,” Samrick said. “Joe is a passionate team player (who) consistently develops new strategies and brings forth opportunities to grow our business. He demonstrates our company’s highest standards of integrity and certainly deserves this promotion.”

Pam Heglund, president of Mill Steel Company, described Poot as “innovative.”

“Joe’s talent and ability to make key business decisions has been invaluable. His innovative thinking and vision will continue to enhance the strategic direction, growth and profitability of Mill Steel," she said.

Poot’s background

Poot started his career with Mill Steel 18 years ago as assistant controller. Shortly thereafter, he advanced to business unit controller. In 2002, he was promoted to purchasing manager, where he engaged in market analysis, purchasing, business planning and inventory risk management.

He became a shareholder and partner in 2006.

Poot has been “a driving force” in the company's geographic expansions, helping achieve double-digit growth year after year for the past decade and expanding the company’s footprint to six facilities, according to Mill Steel.

In June, he led the launch of Mill Steel’s plant in Houston, while simultaneously tending to supplier relationships.

Poot earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Alma College in 1997.

He also serves as an elder at Plainfield Christian Church.

Mill Steel

Mill Steel Company, founded in 1959 by Harry Samrick, operates six service center locations: in Grand Rapids and Melvindale; Anderson and Jeffersonville, Indiana; Birmingham, Alabama; and Houston.