Joan Chesney is the new president of the Aluminium Federation, the first woman to hold the position. She succeeds John Cutler of Bridgnorth Aluminium.

Alfed, the industry trade association, also represents the copper, magnesium and titanium sectors. It employs 20,000 people in the UK and has a turnover of £3bn. Ms Chesney has held management posts with Alcan and Novelis.