Executive Summary
Theresa E. Wagler has been a critical member of Steel Dynamics Inc.'s (“SDI”) leadership team since 1998, holding progressively senior roles culminating in her current positions as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Principal Accounting Officer, and Corporate Secretary, which she has held since May 2007. Her career at SDI spans over 25 years, demonstrating deep institutional knowledge and leadership in finance, governance, and strategic initiatives at one of the largest domestic steel producers in the United States.
Professional Roles and Responsibilities
At Steel Dynamics, Theresa Wagler is responsible for the company’s financial operations, accounting oversight, and corporate governance, reflecting her designation as the principal accounting officer and CFO. Beyond finance, her remit extends to company-wide safety programs, human resources, business development, and strategic planning, as well as oversight of two operating joint ventures within the SDI portfolio. She is actively involved in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and investor relations—as noted in multiple SEC filings—and plays a key role in capital markets activity, including leadership during SDI’s recent successful $600 million bond offering (5.250% Notes due 2035).
Theresa’s executive role is also augmented by her service as a Corporate Secretary, giving her additional governance responsibilities consistent with maintaining compliance and effective board communication channels.
Career Development and Background
- Joined SDI as a corporate accountant in 1998 and advanced to roles including corporate controller, chief accounting officer, and ultimately CFO and EVP.
- Prior to Steel Dynamics, she practiced as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with Ernst & Young LLP, highlighting a strong foundation in public accounting and audit.
- Holds a Bachelor of Science degree (cum laude) in Accounting and Systems Analysis from Taylor University, underpinning her expertise in financial systems and controls.
Recognition and External Roles
- Honored in October 2022 by Trine University with the Woman of Distinction Award, reflecting her leadership stature and community involvement beyond SDI.
- Serves as an Independent Director at CF Industries Holdings, Inc., indicating recognition of her expertise and governance capability outside of Steel Dynamics.
- Frequently represents SDI in public and investor forums, including quarterly earnings calls, where she articulates financial performance and strategic direction.
Recent Performance and Strategic Context
- Under Wagler’s financial stewardship, SDI has reported robust financial results. For example, the second quarter of fiscal 2025 net income was approximately $299 million, with earnings per share around $2.01.
- She has actively commented on SDI’s strategic growth activities, including the construction of a state-of-the-art aluminum flat-rolled facility in Columbus, Mississippi, projected to generate $650–700 million in capital investment and strengthen the company’s aluminum market footprint.
- Theresa emphasizes sustainability initiatives: SDI has publicly committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050, with intermediate goals set for 2025 and 2030, and she articulates the company’s leadership in a low carbon footprint approach within the electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking sector.
Compensation
- In 2024, Theresa Wagler’s total compensation as Executive Vice President, CFO, Principal Accounting Officer, and Corporate Secretary was reported at approximately $6.26 million, reflecting the strategic importance of her role in driving SDI’s financial management and corporate strategy.
Company Overview Context Relevant to Theresa Wagler’s Role
Steel Dynamics Inc. is a leading manufacturer and recycler of carbon steel products in the United States, with a diverse portfolio spanning steelmaking, metals recycling, and steel fabrication. The company has demonstrated operational resilience and financial strength during economic fluctuations, partially attributable to disciplined financial and strategic governance under senior leadership including Wagler.
Summary of Professional Profile
Theresa E. Wagler is a highly experienced financial executive with a long tenure and comprehensive leadership scope at Steel Dynamics, Inc. Her expertise bridges accounting, financial management, corporate governance, sustainability strategies, and operational oversight. She is a trusted voice in strategic growth initiatives and investor communications and serves as a key contributor to SDI’s continued expansion and environmental commitments.
Professional LinkedIn: [Theresa Wagler](https://linkedin.com/in/theresa-wagler)
Official Company Profile: [Steel Dynamics Executive Leadership](https://www.steeldynamics.com/theresa-e-wagler/)
