Russel Focuses on OCTG
Toronto-based Russel Metals Inc. sees opportunity in the oil fields and has hired an industry veteran to expand the company’s OCTG business.
Dean Rougas has been appointed president of the company's Spartan Steel Products division. Based in Houston, Rougas will report to Mike Harris, the president of Pioneer Pipe. Rougas will be supported by Spartan's team in Evergreen, Colo.
“The growing opportunities in OCTG product, fueled by increased drilling activities and improved economics of the shale oil and gas fields, is one of our areas of focus. The addition of Dean to our team allows us to grow organically and increase our investment in this dynamic growth opportunity,” says Brian Hedges, Russel president and CEO.
North American supply of OCTG products has stabilized following the wave of consolidations in 2007 and 2008, which impacted the distribution channel, adds Hedges. “We feel this is the right time to increase our presence in the U.S. through our Spartan Energy Tubulars operations. I am very pleased that we have been able to attract a veteran industry executive like Dean to quarterback this area."