ArcelorMittal is positive about their future in Vanderbijlpark!

From left to right: Themba Nkosi (AMSA), Johan Sittig (VBC), Phillip Vermeulen (VBC), Paul O’ Flaherty (AMSA), Klippies Kritzinger (VBC), Kesebone Maema (AMSA), Jan Jooste (SUBF)

Vanderbijlpark Business Chamber Exco members leaded by Chairperson Klippies Kritzinger met this morning with ArcelorMittal top management representatives leaded by Paul O’Flaherty (CEO), Themba Nkosi (General Manager: Corporate Affairs) and Kesebone Maema (Manager: Corporate Communications and Branding). 

Paul O’Flaherty stated that the executive team had been challenged to improve their individual performance levels by March 2015, or be replaced. There is no question about the Vanderbijlpark/Vereeniging Works being closed down by March 2015. There are multiple challenges, but the business must be turned around and ArcelorMittal is determined to win! In fact, at the moment Vanderbijlpark Works is performing well to generate income for the group. This is especially beneficial as the Newcastle works that is still battling to start up. Some internal restructuring will be inevitable to improve the cost effectiveness and efficiancy of ArcelorMittal. Accountability from all employees and stakeholders will be crutual for the success and recovery of ArcelorMittal.

ArcelorMittal is determined to repair relations with customers, various levels of government and local communities. A lot of sorely needed cash had been invested to improving the ArcelorMittal footprint. R 1,5 billion had been spend over the last five years and part of what has been achieved is that the emission of solid particles had been reduced from 6 000 tons per year to 1 250 tons per year. ArcelorMittal accepts that this is still a lot; but is working to improve it further – beyond the current 80 % improvement.

Today was an important day at ArcelorMittal, kicking off at 07:00 with a visit by a delegation from the Gauteng Premier, Mr David Makhura. The Premier was represented by his Chief Director, Mr Mduduzi Mbada. ArcelorMittal indicated its need for support in the areas of electricity, trains and environmental legislation.

Thereafter the visit from the Vanderbijlpark Business Chamber and the Sedibeng United Business Forum were held where it was agreed that:

• The Vanderbijlpark Business Chamber (VBC) will help to spread the true message about ArcelorMittal, and most importantly to create a positive “we can innovate” spirit in the Vaal Triangle. Problems can drop a community in depression – but we would rather excel in solving problems positively.
• We will collaborate to simplify communications, inform the community about the true state of affairs and create a platform to engage with the local communities.
• The business chamber will assist in the establishment of a Suppliers’ Forum early in 2015 to particularly help local business in forming sustainable relations with ArcelorMittal. 

Gauteng Province as a unit has the fourth biggest gross domestic market in Africa. ArcelorMittal will work with various levels of government, the communities and business to make Gauteng an even more important generator of jobs and wealth.

Author: Klippies Kritzinger                                                                                         Chairperson: Vanderbijlpark Business Chamber

Also visit: www.sgrif.co.za for more information regarding innovation and industry in the Vaal Triangle.