Scotty Lees

Pragmatic problem solver. Focuses on the team’s success. Believes there’s always something more to learn.

Almost six years ago, Scotty Lees interviewed for an accounting position at our Streetsboro, OH Integrity Stainless division. During that interview, Scotty was asked if he’d be able to add color to the black and red world of financials – and he’s proving that he absolutely can.

Prior to joining Olympic Steel, Scotty managed the office for a family-owned manufacturing company where he started working at the age of 15. From sweeping the floors to operating machinery, shipping/receiving and eventually working his way into the front office – that’s where he gained manufacturing experience in sales, quality, bookkeeping and more. While working there, he attended Akron University. After graduating from Akron with a degree in Accounting, Scotty started his career with Integrity Stainless in Streetsboro, OH as an Accountant. Since then, he’s been promoted to Senior Accountant and to his current position, Accounting Supervisor for Integrity’s Streetsboro, OH location and McCullough Industries in Kenton, OH.

In six years, Scotty has accomplished a lot. He’s most proud of his involvement with the McCullough Industries acquisition. “While I enjoyed returning to my roots of seeing a company use a smaller ERP system, it was fulfilling to help McCullough transition to a larger system that streamlined processes and improved reporting capabilities,” says Scotty.

He continues to contribute to McCullough Industries through his work as Accounting Supervisor for the division. “Scotty demonstrates all of Olympic Steel’s Core Values on a daily basis, and doing so has helped him advance quickly to a leadership role,” says Joe Casey, General Manager at McCullough Industries. “When it comes down to it – Scotty just cares. He cares about his job, Olympic Steel, his employees and his coworkers and teammates.”

Jerry Gideon, Integrity Stainless General Manager, adds, “Along with being a great teammate, Scotty is a great listener and excellent communicator. He recognizes that people learn and communicate differently, and he adjusts his approach accordingly to be sure the entire team is on the same page. This management style helps us make solid business decisions and develop strategies that move the entire organization forward in the same direction.”

While Scotty’s accomplishments can be attributed to his internal drive to do his best, he credits much of his success to a few mentors he’s had the privilege to work with who have helped him develop his managerial style. He explains, “Jerry Gideon taught me how to handle tough, stressful situations and to take a step back to see things from a different perspective. Joe Casey taught me the importance of work/life balance and the power of teambuilding and engaging with employees. Finally, Bob Dove (McCullough Operations Manager) taught me that hard work and dedication to one’s career and the company really do pay off.”

Scotty has learned much from his mentors and combined that with his own flair to add color not only to financials, but the workplace. It makes him happy to come to work each day knowing he has the ability to have an impact.

“The people make the place,” says Scotty. “I’m the guy who shows up in an elf costume at the holiday party, and I participate in spirit days because a fun, energetic team boosts morale. And the smiles that come from that fun are adding color to the workplace!”

When asked for his advice to others on how to be successful in building a career at Olympic Steel, Scotty says this: “Be involved. Approach with a ‘how can I help?’ mentality. And, when helping others, always be open to learn more about the business.”