Manufacture Alabama is pleased to announce that the Manufacture Alabama Board of Directors has elected Paul Vercher as the new chairman. Vercher, who is the director of Government Affairs for the United States Steel Corporation will serve a two-year term, effective September 16, 2021. Vercher has been a member of Manufacture Alabama’s Board for several years, most recently serving as Secretary. He succeeds Carl Gunter, Mill Manager of International Paper in Prattville, AL, who is retiring at the end of September.

“It has been an honor to serve on the board of Manufacture Alabama for the past eight years,” said Carl Gunter. “The organization is poised for continued growth with solid leadership, a talented team and a bright future. I’ve served alongside Paul for several years and know his leadership of the board will be invaluable as the team works to further enhance the manufacturing environment in Alabama.”

Vercher has been with US Steel Corporation for more than 14 years, serving as the director of State Government Affairs since 2011. Prior to that, he held Government Affairs positions with the Business Council of Alabama, the Alabama Rural Electric Association, the Birmingham Regional Chamber of Commerce, and served on the staffs of Alabama Governor Fob James and United States Senator Richard Shelby.

‘I am both humbled and excited about the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Board for Manufacture, Alabama,” said Vercher. “I look forward to working with George and his talented team building on the positive momentum created since the inception of our organization while continuing to ensure that the voice of manufacturing is placed at the forefront in Washington and Montgomery.”

‘Paul’s long history with Manufacture Alabama, coupled with his experience, expertise and skill make him an ideal person for this role,” said George Clark, president of Manufacture Alabama. “The staff and I look forward to continuing to work closely with Paul to ensure Alabama maintains a positive business environment and is a top location for manufacturers.”

“I also want to thank Carl for his leadership and service to our organization over the years,” said Clark. “The last two years have been unlike any others in the history of Manufacture Alabama and Carl’s support has been crucial.”