Austin Powder Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Austin Powder has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and regional leadership.

Driven by a legacy of innovation, Austin Powder is dedicated to providing essential blasting services and commercial explosives through advanced powder manufacturing, shaping market impact across diverse industries.

Leadership Roles at Austin Powder

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - John Rathbun
  • Chief Financial Officer - Randy Khalaf
  • Chief Financial Officer Latín América - Martin Adame
  • Chief Operating Officer Africa - Neil Kernahan
  • President, Mid-Atlantic & Southeast LLC - Ross Ellis
  • President, Western (Canada) - Jaret Nault
  • President, MidSouth LLC - Chip Davis
  • Division President - Jason Madewell
  • President, Apl Central (Canada) - John Newton
  • President (Asia) - Nigel Convey
  • John Rathbun - President & Chief Executive Officer

    John Rathbun, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Austin Powder, directs the company's overarching strategy and global operations. Rathbun guides the manufacturing of commercial explosives and the provision of blasting services, ensuring alignment with the company's long-standing mission. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for market expansion and operational excellence. By focusing on innovation in powder manufacturing, John Rathbun drives the company's competitive edge. The Chief Executive Officer ensures robust financial performance and sustainable growth across all business units. Rathbun's executive oversight encompasses all departments, fostering a culture of safety and efficiency critical to the explosives industry. The President & Chief Executive Officer is accountable for the company's overall market position and long-term viability.

    Randy Khalaf - Chief Financial Officer

    Randy Khalaf, the Chief Financial Officer at Austin Powder, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Khalaf oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation, supporting the manufacturing of commercial explosives and blasting services. This executive function ensures fiscal discipline and drives profitability across the organization. By optimizing financial strategies, Randy Khalaf enhances the company's investment potential and operational efficiency. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other leaders to secure funding and manage risk effectively. Khalaf's expertise is crucial for maintaining the financial stability required for large-scale industrial operations. The Chief Financial Officer's role involves rigorous analysis to inform executive decisions and support sustainable business growth.

    Martin Adame - Chief Financial Officer Latín América

    Martin Adame, the Chief Financial Officer Latín América at Austin Powder, leads financial strategy and management for the Latin American region. Adame is responsible for overseeing all financial aspects related to the company's commercial explosives and blasting services operations in Latin America. This executive role ensures robust financial controls and drives profitable growth within the region. By developing tailored financial plans, Martin Adame supports market penetration and operational scaling. The Chief Financial Officer Latín América works to optimize resource allocation and manage financial risks specific to the region. Adame's financial acumen is vital for navigating diverse economic landscapes. The Chief Financial Officer Latín América ensures compliance and enhances financial performance across all Latin American business units.

    Neil Kernahan - Chief Operating Officer Africa

    Neil Kernahan, the Chief Operating Officer Africa at Austin Powder, directs all operational activities across the African continent. Kernahan oversees the manufacturing and distribution of commercial explosives and the execution of blasting services within this key region. This leadership position involves optimizing supply chains and ensuring operational efficiency for regional clients. By implementing best practices, Neil Kernahan drives productivity and safety standards across African operations. The Chief Operating Officer Africa collaborates with local teams to meet market demands and regulatory requirements. Kernahan's focus is on expanding the company's footprint and service delivery in Africa. The Chief Operating Officer Africa is responsible for achieving operational targets and contributing to the company's global success.
    Neil Kernahan

    Ross Ellis - President, Mid-Atlantic & Southeast LLC

    Ross Ellis, the President, Mid-Atlantic & Southeast LLC at Austin Powder, spearheads business development and operational oversight for these critical U.S. regions. Ellis directs the provision of blasting services and the management of commercial explosives supply chains within the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast territories. This leadership role focuses on expanding market share and ensuring customer satisfaction through localized strategies. By fostering strong client relationships, Ross Ellis drives revenue growth and operational excellence. The President, Mid-Atlantic & Southeast LLC collaborates with national teams to align regional objectives with corporate goals. Ellis's strategic direction is key to meeting the unique demands of these markets. The President, Mid-Atlantic & Southeast LLC ensures efficient service delivery and maintains the company's reputation for quality.

    Jaret Nault - President, Western (Canada)

    Jaret Nault, the President, Western (Canada) at Austin Powder, commands all operations and strategic initiatives across Western Canada. Nault oversees the delivery of blasting services and the distribution of commercial explosives, ensuring compliance with Canadian industry standards. This executive position is pivotal for driving regional growth and operational efficiency. By adapting strategies to the Western Canadian market, Jaret Nault enhances service offerings and client engagement. The President, Western (Canada) works to strengthen the company's presence and market leadership in the region. Nault's leadership ensures that Austin Powder effectively serves its diverse customer base. The President, Western (Canada) is accountable for achieving regional performance targets and contributing to overall company success.
    Jaret Nault

    Chip Davis - President, MidSouth LLC

    Chip Davis, the President, MidSouth LLC at Austin Powder, leads all business operations and strategic planning for the MidSouth region. Davis manages the provision of blasting services and the supply of commercial explosives, focusing on meeting regional market needs. This executive role emphasizes driving operational efficiency and expanding the company's customer base within the MidSouth territory. By implementing targeted sales and service strategies, Chip Davis enhances market penetration and revenue generation. The President, MidSouth LLC ensures seamless coordination between operational teams and client requirements. Davis's leadership is critical for maintaining service quality and competitive positioning. The President, MidSouth LLC is responsible for achieving regional business objectives and upholding company standards.

    Jason Madewell - Division President

    Jason Madewell, the Division President at Austin Powder, directs the strategic execution and operational performance of assigned business divisions. Madewell oversees the critical functions related to commercial explosives manufacturing and the delivery of specialized blasting services. This leadership position involves optimizing divisional resources and ensuring alignment with broader company objectives. By focusing on process improvements, Jason Madewell drives efficiency and enhances service delivery across divisions. The Division President collaborates with executive leadership to identify growth opportunities and manage divisional risks. Madewell's role is essential for maintaining operational integrity and achieving targeted business outcomes. The Division President ensures that each division contributes effectively to Austin Powder's overall success.

    John Newton - President, Apl Central (Canada)

    John Newton, the President, Apl Central (Canada) at Austin Powder, manages all operational and strategic aspects for Central Canada. Newton oversees the supply and application of commercial explosives and blasting services throughout this key Canadian territory. This executive responsibility involves driving regional market growth and ensuring operational excellence. By implementing localized business strategies, John Newton strengthens Austin Powder's position in Central Canada. The President, Apl Central (Canada) works to enhance customer relationships and expand service capabilities. Newton's leadership ensures efficient operations and adherence to safety protocols. The President, Apl Central (Canada) is focused on achieving regional business goals and contributing to the company's Canadian market success.

    Nigel Convey - President (Asia)

    Nigel Convey, the President (Asia) at Austin Powder, leads the company's strategic direction and operational execution across the Asian market. Convey directs the manufacturing and deployment of commercial explosives and blasting services, tailoring approaches to diverse regional needs. This executive role is crucial for expanding Austin Powder's footprint and market share in Asia. By fostering local partnerships and optimizing supply chains, Nigel Convey drives regional business development. The President (Asia) ensures compliance with local regulations and industry best practices. Convey's leadership focuses on sustainable growth and operational efficiency throughout the continent. The President (Asia) is accountable for achieving significant business objectives and strengthening the company's presence in key Asian markets.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Austin Powder Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Austin Powder?
    Austin Powder is led by John Rathbun (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Randy Khalaf (Chief Financial Officer) and Martin Adame (Chief Financial Officer Latín América).
    Who is part of Austin Powder’s executive team?
    The executive team of Austin Powder includes leaders such as John Rathbun (President & Chief Executive Officer), Randy Khalaf (Chief Financial Officer), Martin Adame (Chief Financial Officer Latín América) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Austin Powder have?
    Austin Powder has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Austin Powder’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Austin Powder includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer Latín América, Chief Operating Officer Africa, President, Mid-Atlantic & Southeast LLC.