AN established society that studies material-related subjects and historical items of interest has elected its new president.

The Ebbw Vale Metallurgical and Historical Society, now in its 77th year, has chosen TATA Steel controller, Mike Davies. Mr Davies, controller accounting services for the UK, Germany and France for TATA Steel, was presented with the badge of office by Chairman, Mel Warrender.

The former Ebbw Vale Comprehensive pupil has a degree in maths and an MBA at Warwick University. He also played rugby for RTB’s and cricket and soccer for British Steel Ebbw Vale.

Serving in senior management roles within the steel industry, Mr Davies was seconded to the US to run an electrical steel business, returning to the UK as Finance Director for TATA Steel’s packaging business and as Finance Director for operations in the UK, Belgium, Norway and the Netherlands, finally becoming Controller Accounting Services for the UK, German and French entities for TATA Steel.

His Presidential address, entitled ‘The Impact of TATA Steel on the South Wales Steel Footprint and the External/Internal features that will Shape the Future,’ was heard by more than 50 members earlier this month.