Robert M. Payne has announced his retirement as president and CEO of the Copper Development Association after 10 years of service. Andrew G. Kireta, Sr., has been named as Payne's successor by the CDA Board of Directors.

Payne has been in the nonferrous metals industry for 40 years. He took over the reins of the CDA in 1990 and spearheaded programs that have led to unprecedented growth in the industry. He also relinquishes his position as executive director of the North American region of the International Copper Association, which he has held since 1994. Payne will spend part of his time consulting with CDA and ICA from his residence in Wilton, CT.

Kireta moves to the top executive position following 21 years with the association. He joined CDA in 1979 and served as Northeast regional manager for 15 years before becoming national program manager, and in 1997 became vice president for tube, pipe and fittings.

The CDA is the information, technical and market development arm of the copper, brass and bronze industry in the USA.