James D. Hoffman served as the CEO of Reliance Steel and Aluminum Co. from January 1, 2019, until December 31, 2022. He transitioned into this role after a series of promotions within the company over more than a decade. As...

James D. Hoffman served as the CEO of Reliance Steel and Aluminum Co. from January 1, 2019, until December 31, 2022. He transitioned into this role after a series of promotions within the company over more than a decade. As COO and later EVP, his experience in operations shaped the company’s strategy, especially in carbon steel and alloy operations. A key highlight of Hoffman's tenure is his focus on aligning executive compensation with company performance, which is crucial in motivating staff to deliver results. Under his leadership, he amassed a total compensation of around $14.9 million in 2022, consisting of salary and significant vested stock, reflecting his performance-focused approach. Fascinatingly, Hoffman is also leaving a legacy: on October 24, 2023, he announced his retirement from the Board while his son manages one of Reliance's divisions. His insider trading showed interesting increases in holdings, peaking at over $44.9 million in December 2022, indicating a strong belief in his company’s future. After his CEO role, he takes on a Senior Advisor position, ensuring he remains influential within the organization. Hoffman's journey indicates a commitment to the industry and the evolving operational strategies at Reliance.