Rob Harris, the managing director of the Industrial Fasteners Institute from 1995 through 2017, is returning as interim director, IFI chair Phil Johnson announced.

“I am sad to report that effective immediately Ken McCreight is no longer managing director,” Johnson announced. The IFI board and selection committee “unanimously agreed to separate with Mr. McCreight.”

“Harris has agreed to a consulting agreement to assume the duties of managing director on an interim basis while we resume the search for a long-term MD,” Johnson said. “I want to thank Rob for agreeing to step in as the interim director and know that he will continue to steward the Institute well during this time of change.”

“I want to assure the membership that the initiatives that we have underway (new standards, apprenticeship program, etc.) will continue to move forward in an expeditious manner,” Johnson added.

McCreight joined the fastener manufacturers organization from Cleveland-based Manufacturing Advocacy & Growth Network (MAGNET). Previously he was vice president of the National Tooling & Machining Association.

McCreight was only the seventh managing director since the IFI was founded in 1931.

The IFI staff now includes Salim Brahimi, director of engineering technology; Barbara Grachanin and Michelle Lightfoot, administrative; and three IFI members heading divisions: Pat Meade, aerospace; John O’Brien, automotive; and Bob Hill, industrial. Web: indfast.org