In a suprise move today at the company's Board of Directors meeting, Weirton Steel C.E.O. and President John Walker has resigned. In a prepared statement from the company Walker says, "I've had several employment opportunities. But last year, I decided to remain with the company to complete our out-of-court restructuring program and this year, I remained to ensure the company would move forward with its current in-court reorganization. Now that the company has received its final court approval for its debtor-in-possession financing facility, I am confident it is headed in the right direction. Therefore I've decided it's now time for me to pursue other options." Walker , who is 45 years old was named president of Weirton Steel in March 2000. he was appointed chief executive officer in January 2001.