Vulcan Steel’s CEO Retires After 19 Years: Who’s Leading Next?
Vulcan Steel announces a significant leadership transition with CEO Rhys Jones retiring after nearly two decades, handing the reins to Gavin Street from January 2026. The board reshuffle also sees Jones moving to non-executive Chair, ensuring continuity at the top.
- Rhys Jones retires as CEO after 19 years
- Gavin Street appointed Managing Director and CEO effective 1 January 2026
- Rhys Jones to become non-executive Chair, succeeding Russell Chenu
- Board retains majority of independent directors post-transition
- Leadership changes aim to support Vulcan’s growth and governance stability
A New Chapter for Vulcan Steel
After 19 years at the helm, Rhys Jones is stepping down as CEO of Vulcan Steel Limited, marking the end of a significant era for the Australasian industrial products distributor. His tenure has seen Vulcan solidify its position as a leader in steel and metals distribution across Australia and New Zealand. The announcement of his retirement, effective at the start of 2026, signals a carefully planned leadership transition designed to maintain stability and momentum.
Gavin Street, A Proven Leader Takes the Helm
Stepping into the CEO role will be Gavin Street, currently Vulcan’s Chief Commercial Officer. With over two decades of executive experience in industrial distribution, including leadership roles at Lawrence & Hanson Australia and Reece Limited, Street brings a wealth of strategic and operational expertise. His appointment as Managing Director and CEO from 1 January 2026 reflects the board’s confidence in his ability to guide Vulcan through its next growth phase.
Street’s background, which includes managing thousands of employees and hundreds of branches, aligns well with Vulcan’s scale and ambitions. His leadership style and vision have already resonated within the company culture since joining in 2024, suggesting a seamless transition ahead.
Board Leadership and Governance Continuity
In a complementary move, Rhys Jones will transition to the role of non-executive Chair of the Board, succeeding current Chair Russell Chenu, who will remain on the board as lead independent director. This reshuffle ensures that Jones’s deep industry knowledge and strategic insight remain accessible at the highest governance level, providing continuity and stability.
Meanwhile, Chief Operating Officer Adrian Casey, a long-serving executive since 1998, will continue in his role, underpinning operational consistency during the leadership handover. The board’s composition will maintain a majority of independent directors, reinforcing strong governance standards.
Looking Ahead
The leadership changes come ahead of Vulcan’s annual shareholder meeting planned for October 2025, where Jones will stand for election as a director. The board has also left open the possibility for Jones to provide additional executive support if required, highlighting a flexible approach to managing the transition.
Overall, Vulcan Steel’s leadership update reflects a strategic balance between honoring legacy and embracing future growth. Investors and stakeholders can expect a steady hand guiding the company through evolving market conditions, supported by experienced leadership and a clear governance framework.
Bottom Line?
Vulcan’s leadership transition sets the stage for sustained growth, but investors will watch closely how Gavin Street’s vision translates into performance.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Gavin Street’s leadership style influence Vulcan’s strategic priorities?
- What role will Rhys Jones play in shaping board decisions as non-executive Chair?
- Will the leadership changes prompt any shifts in Vulcan’s operational or financial outlook?
