The Metal Roofing Alliance has a new executive director. Bill Hippard, a former manager with U.S. Steel and Pre-Coat Metals, has replaced the retiring Tom Black.

Hippard has more than 40 years of industry experience, the alliance said, and was previously president of the Metal Construction Association. Atas International President Dick Bus will take Hippard’s place as president on the MRA board. 

“Bill’s deep knowledge of all the components of the metal industry supply chain, from the raw materials through distribution and sales will be a tremendous asset as we move forward with our plans to grow the residential metal roofing marketplace,” Bus said. “The Metal Roofing Alliance is fortunate to have someone with Bill’s skills to replace Tom Black, who helped to launch the organization in 1998. Tom’s marketing vision has enabled MRA and our industry to grow substantially, and we expect Bill to continue that effort.”

Hippard said he looks forward to helping grow metal roofing’s share of the construction market. “I couldn’t be happier to begin this new chapter in my career and with the MRA,” he said. “The Metal Roofing Alliance is in a unique position. Every 1 percent we’re able to grow the residential metal roofing market will result in 100,000 tons of new steel in use, creating a ripple effect that positively impacts all members of the supply chain. The organization provides a fantastic return on investment for the metal industry.”