Refuel Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Refuel has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, marketing, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to operational excellence, Refuel focuses on expanding its retail and wholesale fuel distribution network while enhancing the convenience store experience across multiple states.

Leadership Roles at Refuel

  • Chief Executive Officer - James Lopez
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder - Travis Smith
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - John Rier
  • Chief Financial Officer - Derek Leskovic
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Julijana Henry
  • Chief Technology Officer - Justin Mitchell
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Timothy Rupp
  • Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff - Laura Patin
  • James Lopez - Chief Executive Officer

    James Lopez, the Chief Executive Officer at Refuel, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution for the company's extensive retail and wholesale fuel distribution network. Lopez guides the expansion initiatives across central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas, ensuring alignment with market demands and business objectives. Oversight extends to optimizing the convenience store operations, enhancing customer experience, and driving revenue growth through strategic market penetration. The Chief Executive Officer role involves fostering a culture of efficiency and customer satisfaction throughout the organization. By focusing on scalable growth, James Lopez ensures the long-term viability and market leadership of Refuel's diverse business segments.

    Travis Smith - Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder

    Travis Smith, the Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder at Refuel, spearheads strategic vision and foundational growth for the company's fuel distribution and convenience store operations. Smith's leadership encompasses driving innovation in retail offerings and expanding the company's geographic footprint throughout central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. The Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder role involves cultivating key partnerships and ensuring the company's mission of providing quality fuel and convenience services is consistently met. Travis Smith's entrepreneurial drive fuels the continuous development of new market opportunities and the enhancement of existing store performance, solidifying Refuel's position in the competitive landscape.
    Travis Smith

    John Rier - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    John Rier, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Refuel, manages critical aspects of the company's strategic direction and operational management across its retail and wholesale fuel distribution channels. Rier's responsibilities include overseeing the expansion and optimization of convenience store locations in central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas, ensuring seamless integration of services. The Co-Chief Executive Officer position demands a focus on operational efficiency, supply chain management, and maintaining high standards of customer service. John Rier drives initiatives aimed at enhancing profitability and market share, leveraging deep industry knowledge to navigate complex market dynamics and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
    John Rier

    Derek Leskovic - Chief Financial Officer

    Derek Leskovic, the Chief Financial Officer at Refuel, oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for the company's retail and wholesale fuel distribution network. Leskovic manages financial strategies that support expansion initiatives in central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas, ensuring fiscal responsibility and profitability. The Chief Financial Officer role involves analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and securing capital for growth. Derek Leskovic's expertise in financial management is critical for maintaining the company's financial health and supporting strategic decision-making across all business segments.

    Julijana Henry - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Julijana Henry, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Refuel, supports the financial management and strategic planning for the company's extensive retail and wholesale fuel distribution operations. Henry assists in overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis to ensure fiscal health across operations in central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer role involves collaborating with the executive team to identify financial opportunities and mitigate risks. Julijana Henry's focus on financial integrity and strategic support aids Refuel in achieving its growth targets and maintaining operational excellence.

    Justin Mitchell - Chief Technology Officer

    Justin Mitchell, the Chief Technology Officer at Refuel, architects and executes the company's technology strategy, supporting its extensive retail and wholesale fuel distribution operations. Mitchell oversees the implementation of innovative digital solutions that enhance customer engagement at convenience stores across central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. The Chief Technology Officer role involves managing IT infrastructure, ensuring data security, and driving technological advancements that improve operational efficiency and support business growth. Justin Mitchell's focus on scalable technology platforms enables Refuel to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
    Justin Mitchell

    Timothy Rupp - Chief Marketing Officer

    Timothy Rupp, the Chief Marketing Officer at Refuel, develops and implements comprehensive marketing strategies to drive brand awareness and customer acquisition for the company's retail and wholesale fuel distribution businesses. Rupp directs campaigns that highlight Refuel's convenience store offerings and fuel services across central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. The Chief Marketing Officer role encompasses market research, digital marketing initiatives, and promotional activities designed to enhance customer loyalty and increase sales volume. Timothy Rupp's strategic vision ensures that Refuel's brand message resonates with target audiences, supporting sustained growth and market penetration.
    Timothy Rupp

    Laura Patin - Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff

    Laura Patin, the Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff at Refuel, manages key strategic initiatives and provides operational support to executive leadership across the company's fuel distribution and convenience store operations. Patin coordinates cross-functional teams to execute projects that enhance efficiency and drive growth in central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. The Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff role involves facilitating communication between departments, ensuring project timelines are met, and supporting the implementation of strategic plans. Laura Patin's contributions are vital for streamlining operations and advancing Refuel's business objectives.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Refuel Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Refuel?
    Refuel is led by James Lopez (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Travis Smith (Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder) and John Rier (Co-Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Refuel’s executive team?
    The executive team of Refuel includes leaders such as James Lopez (Chief Executive Officer), Travis Smith (Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder), John Rier (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Refuel have?
    Refuel has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Refuel’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Refuel includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer.