Covia Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Covia has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, and strategy.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Covia provides essential materials for diverse industries, focusing on sustainable resource management and advanced product development to meet global market demands.

Leadership Roles at Covia

  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Michael Biehl
  • Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer - Laura Riquelme
  • Chief Operating Officer - Russell Montgomery
  • President - Toshihiko Kumashiro
  • Michael Biehl - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Biehl, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Covia, manages the company's comprehensive financial strategy and operations. Biehl oversees all fiscal planning, budgeting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust financial health and compliance. This executive role involves managing capital allocation, investment strategies, and risk management to support Covia's growth objectives in the metal mining and proppant sectors. By analyzing market trends and financial performance, Michael Biehl provides critical insights that inform executive decision-making and drive sustainable profitability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, securing the necessary resources for operational expansion and technological advancement.

    Laura Riquelme - Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer

    Laura Riquelme, the Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer at Covia, directs the company's financial architecture and performance management. Riquelme's oversight includes all aspects of financial planning, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal integrity and strategic resource deployment. This critical position involves guiding Covia's financial trajectory through meticulous analysis of market dynamics and operational expenditures, particularly concerning the production of specialized minerals like nepheline syenite and quartz proppants. Laura Riquelme champions financial discipline and transparency, fostering investor confidence and supporting long-term value creation. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic input is vital for capital investment decisions and optimizing the financial outcomes of Covia's extensive mining and processing operations.
    Laura Riquelme

    Russell Montgomery - Chief Operating Officer

    Russell Montgomery, the Chief Operating Officer at Covia, directs all operational facets of the company's metal mining services. Overseeing the production of low-iron nepheline syenite for glass, ceramics, paints, and plastics, Montgomery ensures efficient manufacturing processes. This leadership role also encompasses the strategic management of quartz proppants crucial for oil and natural gas simulation and recovery operations. By optimizing supply chains and production workflows, Russell Montgomery drives operational excellence and cost-effectiveness across all mining and processing facilities. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on enhancing output quality and volume while adhering to stringent safety and environmental standards, directly supporting Covia's market position in essential material supply.
    Russell Montgomery

    Toshihiko Kumashiro - President

    Toshihiko Kumashiro, the President at Covia, sets the overarching strategic direction and vision for the company's global operations. Kumashiro leads the executive team in executing initiatives that enhance Covia's market leadership in providing essential mining services and specialized mineral products. This presidential role involves fostering innovation in product development, such as low-iron nepheline syenite and advanced quartz proppants, to meet evolving industry demands in glass, ceramics, and energy sectors. Toshihiko Kumashiro drives the company's commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and stakeholder value, ensuring Covia remains a trusted partner. The President's leadership guides strategic partnerships and market expansion efforts, solidifying Covia's position as a key supplier in critical industrial supply chains.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Minerals & Mining

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Covia Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Covia?
    Covia is led by Michael Biehl (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Laura Riquelme (Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer) and Russell Montgomery (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Covia’s executive team?
    The executive team of Covia includes leaders such as Michael Biehl (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Laura Riquelme (Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer), Russell Montgomery (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Covia have?
    Covia has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Covia’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Covia includes roles such as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President.