Quanex Appoints Michael R. Bayles President of Building Products Segment

HOUSTON, March 10 -- Quanex Corporation announced today that Michael R. Bayles is appointed President of the Building Products segment and remains a corporate vice president. He will report directly to Raymond A. Jean, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Quanex.

In his new position, Mr. Bayles is responsible for Engineered Products with headquarters in Chatsworth, Illinois, and Nichols Aluminum with headquarters in Davenport, Iowa. He has more than twenty-five years of experience in manufacturing businesses, including 10 years as a general manager of operating divisions.

Mr. Bayles joined Quanex as Corporate Vice President - Strategic Planning & Business Development in May 2001. In announcing Mr. Bayles' new assignment, Mr. Jean said, "Michael's strategic acumen coupled with his strong operating skills will help take our Building Products segment to a new level. The group offers Quanex outstanding potential for growth, and we believe his strengths as a leader will be helpful to guide and implement our investment decisions in this market sector."

Mr. Bayles is a graduate of the University of Missouri, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Economics. He is also a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a Masters in Business Administration.

Quanex is an industry-leading manufacturer of engineered materials and components for vehicular products and building products markets. The Company was founded in 1927 and its stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NX. For further information visit the company website at www.quanex.com .

Contacts: Jeff Galow, 713/877-5327

Valerie Calvert, 713/877-5305

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