The IHA is a recognized non-profit association of general interest. It was created in 1986 on the occasion of the centenary celebrations of the aluminium production process.

• The Board of Directors elects from among its members a voluntary executive board composed of the President, the General Secretary and the Treasurer. The president act as both president of the non-profit office, of the board of directors and of the non-profit itself. They is responsible for the day-to-day management of the association. They ensures the daily management of the association. They acts in the name and on behalf of the office, the board of directors and the non-profit.
   
• A Scientific Council, whose members are appointed by the president of the association, defines the orientations of the activity of the association and evaluates the results. It is composed of social science researchers and heritage specialists.

• The full-time staff prepares and implements the association's activity programs under the authority of the General Secretary.