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.
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
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.
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.

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.
Explore Leadership Teams in Chemicals & Related Products
Founded in 2004, Arkema Group is a specialty chemicals and advanced materials company offering glass coating products, and organic peroxide, and hydrogen hydrate. Arkema Group is located in France.
Company Leadership CR
CD
PM
SH
Founded in 1994, PMC Group is a global chemical company that specializes in defoamers, methyl esters, waxes, and wax blends, and flame retardant compounds. PMC Group is located in New Jersey.
Company Leadership CK
GP
JM
JG
Founded in 1955, Flint Hills Resources formerly called Koch Petroleum Group, is an independent company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Koch Industries. The company sells products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, ethanol, polymers, intermediate chemicals, base oils, and asphalt, operating refineries in six states. The company is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas.
Company LeadershipCES Energy Solutions was founded in 1986. This company provides consumable chemical solutions throughout the life cycle of the oilfield. Their headquarters are located in Alberta, Canada.
Company Leadership KZ
DH
MA
AA