Novelis has announced several executive leadership appointments to foster global growth and promote aluminum as a preferred material for circular solutions. Roberta Soares and Cary Chenanda have been named regional presidents for South America and North America, respectively.
Roberta Soares, formerly vice president of operations for Novelis South America, will now serve as senior vice president and president for the region, effective June 1. Soares will manage all aspects of the business in South America, which reported net sales of $2.46 billion in fiscal year 2024. The region includes two plants and approximately 1,700 employees in the beverage packaging and specialties markets.
Cary Chenanda has been appointed executive vice president and president of Novelis North America. He will oversee operations in North America, which had net sales of $6.72 billion in fiscal year 2024. This region encompasses 15 plants and over 4,000 employees serving the beverage packaging, automotive, and specialties markets. Chenanda joined Novelis in April 2024, bringing 25 years of experience from Cummins, where he held various leadership roles.
Former president of South America, Francisco Pires, will transition to the role of chief transformation officer. Pires will focus on advancing aluminum as the material of choice for circular solutions. He previously served as chief operating officer for Novelis South America and has been with the company since 2012.
Tadeu Nardocci, who served as interim president of North America, will now oversee the company’s large capital projects as executive vice president of manufacturing operations. Nardocci’s responsibilities will include managing a $4.1 billion investment in a new rolling and recycling plant in Bay Minette, Alabama. With 45 years at Novelis, Nardocci has extensive experience in capital expansion projects and has held multiple executive leadership positions.
Steve Fisher, president and CEO of Novelis, emphasized the importance of these appointments, stating that the leadership team brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, which will bolster the company's commitment to operational excellence, customer service, innovation, and sustainability.
