Steelworkers International president Leo Gerard has announced he is retiring from the role as of mid-July.
The Sudbury native will be replaced by Tom Conway, who has served as a USW International vice-president since 2005.
Secretary-treasurer Stan Johnson and vice-presidents Carol Landry and John Geenan will also be stepping down at the same time.
Gerard said the decision to announce these changes together ensures a capable and experienced group of leaders “will hit the ground running as a team.”
Gerard served the USW for more than 50 years, said a press release from the Steelworkers.
He began his career at age 18 in the mining industry in his hometown of Sudbury and has since held a series of positions in the union, guiding it to what it is today.
He spent his life fighting for working families and labour rights across the globe, and his impact as a labour leader in North America is immeasurable, a press release said.
Gerard worked as union staff representative and ultimately became a district director, before becoming the national director for Canada, then moving on to international secretary-treasurer, and finally in 2001, the USW's international president.
The union said Gerard has been a "constant, strong and credible" voice for the USW in both Washington, D.C., and Ottawa.
He has testified on innumerable occasions on behalf of the union's membership and their jobs, families and communities.
Gerard served on variety of advisory councils and task forces, setting policy and relentlessly defending workers during his presidency.
Under his leadership, the USW formed the first global union, Workers Uniting, and built global labour alliances around the world.
Gerard intends to remain active in the labour community, but has largely decided to enjoy his well-earned retirement and looks forward to spending more time with his wife and family, the press release said.
"There are few labour leaders who can match Leo Gerard's record and commitment in leading the fight for good jobs, for workers' rights and for social justice in Canada, the U.S. and throughout the world," said USW Canadian Director Ken Neumann, in a press release.
"His leadership will be missed but he is leaving behind a strong union, well-positioned and ready to confront the challenges ahead."
Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the United States House of Representatives, tweeted about Gerard's retirement Wednesday.
“@Steelworkers’ International President Leo W. Gerard has announced his retirement after dedicating 50 years to fighting for working families & labor rights around the world,” she said.
“His legacy will be his accomplishments on behalf of workers & communities across the globe.”
