Century Aluminum CEO Logan Kruger leaves company, sues for alleged breach of contract, wrongful termination

Alison Gallant

MONTEREY, California , November 16, 2011 (Associated Press) – Century Aluminum CEO Kruger out, and sues the company; Finance Chief Bless named acting CEO

Century Aluminum Co. said on Tuesday that its CEO has left the company, resigned as a director, and is suing it alleging breach of contract and wrongful termination.

Former CEO and President Logan Kruger had been with the company since 2005. The aluminum producer said Kruger's claims are without merit.

The company named Michael Bless as acting president and CEO. Bless has been chief financial officer since 2006, and will keep that title. He was previously the chief financial officer for Rockwell Automation Inc.

Century Chairman Terence Wilkinson said Bless has "played a pivotal role in guiding the company through and out of the financial crisis while demonstrating strong leadership and winning the respect of his peers. His experience makes him an excellent choice to guide the company forward at this juncture."

Century Aluminum shares had risen 27 cents, or 2.5 percent, to close at $11.08 before it disclosed the news about its CEO.

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