Gerald L. "Jerry" Heider, worldwide business director for Glass Systems at Washington, Pa.-based Ferro Corp., has announced his retirement, effective July 31. He has more than 36 years of service to the glass industry. A successor will be named next month.

"Jerry and I worked together for nearly 20 years, beginning with Drakenfield," said Bob Martel, a long-time friend, colleague and former vice president of Ferro's Color and Glass Performance Materials. "While the company has made several changes since the, Jerry's knowledge of the glass business, reputation in the industry and relentless commitment to customers were each key factors in making glass systems one of the most consistently successful and profitable businesses over the years."