Refuel Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to operational excellence, Refuel focuses on delivering value through its extensive retail and wholesale fuel distribution network, enhancing customer experience across its convenience store operations, and expanding its market presence in key regions.

Leadership Roles at Refuel

  • Chief Executive Officer - Vishal Kaura
  • 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 Marketing Officer - Timothy Rupp
  • Chief Technology Officer - Justin Mitchell
  • Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff - Laura Patin
  • Vishal Kaura - Chief Executive Officer

    Vishal Kaura, 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. Kaura guides the strategic vision, ensuring alignment across all business units, including convenience store operations and fuel supply chain management. This leadership role involves optimizing market penetration throughout central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. By focusing on sustainable growth initiatives, Vishal Kaura drives the company's expansion efforts and reinforces its position in the competitive fuel and convenience retail sector. The Chief Executive Officer's mandate includes fostering innovation in customer service and operational efficiency across all Refuel locations.

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

    Travis Smith, the Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder at Refuel, collaborates with executive leadership to shape the company's strategic direction and operational framework. Smith's foundational involvement in establishing Refuel informs ongoing business development and market expansion strategies. This leadership position involves overseeing key initiatives that enhance the company's retail and wholesale fuel distribution capabilities across its operating regions. By leveraging deep industry knowledge, Travis Smith contributes to the sustained growth and operational integrity of the business. The Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder's responsibilities include driving strategic partnerships and ensuring the long-term viability of Refuel's market presence.
    Travis Smith

    John Rier - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    John Rier, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Refuel, partners with executive leadership to advance the company's strategic objectives and operational performance. Rier's executive oversight extends to critical functions that support Refuel's extensive network of convenience stores and fuel distribution operations. This leadership capacity involves driving initiatives that enhance market share and operational efficiency throughout central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. By focusing on strategic growth opportunities, John Rier ensures the continued expansion and competitive positioning of Refuel. The Co-Chief Executive Officer's role is pivotal in maintaining the company's commitment to service excellence and robust business development.
    John Rier

    Derek Leskovic - Chief Financial Officer

    Derek Leskovic, the Chief Financial Officer at Refuel, directs all financial operations, including accounting, financial planning, and capital management for the company's extensive retail and wholesale fuel distribution business. Leskovic oversees the financial health and strategic allocation of resources across Refuel's operations in central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. This critical leadership position involves ensuring fiscal responsibility and driving profitability through rigorous financial analysis and forecasting. By maintaining robust financial controls, Derek Leskovic supports sustainable growth and operational efficiency. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is essential for strategic decision-making and long-term financial stability.

    Julijana Henry - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Julijana Henry, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Refuel, collaborates closely with the executive team to manage the company's financial activities and strategic fiscal planning. Henry supports the financial oversight of Refuel's diverse operations, encompassing retail convenience stores and wholesale fuel distribution across multiple states. This leadership function involves contributing to financial reporting, budgeting, and the analysis of financial performance to ensure operational profitability and fiscal integrity. By focusing on sound financial management, Julijana Henry reinforces the company's commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer's role is integral to maintaining financial stability and supporting strategic initiatives.

    Timothy Rupp - Chief Marketing Officer

    Timothy Rupp, the Chief Marketing Officer at Refuel, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies that elevate brand presence and drive customer engagement across all Refuel locations. Rupp oversees the development and implementation of promotional campaigns for both retail convenience stores and wholesale fuel distribution channels. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends and consumer behavior to identify growth opportunities in central North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. By focusing on innovative marketing approaches, Timothy Rupp ensures the effective communication of Refuel's value proposition. The Chief Marketing Officer's efforts are critical in building customer loyalty and expanding market reach.
    Timothy Rupp

    Justin Mitchell - Chief Technology Officer

    Justin Mitchell, the Chief Technology Officer at Refuel, spearheads the company's technology strategy, overseeing all aspects of IT infrastructure, digital transformation, and technological innovation. Mitchell directs the implementation of advanced systems that enhance operational efficiency for Refuel's retail convenience stores and wholesale fuel distribution network. This leadership role involves evaluating and integrating cutting-edge technologies to improve customer experience and streamline business processes across all operating regions. By focusing on scalable technology solutions, Justin Mitchell ensures Refuel remains competitive and adaptable in a rapidly evolving market. The Chief Technology Officer's vision is crucial for driving digital advancements and supporting strategic business objectives.
    Justin Mitchell

    Laura Patin - Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff

    Laura Patin, the Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff at Refuel, drives the execution of key strategic initiatives and provides critical operational support to the executive leadership team. Patin oversees project management for significant business development efforts, ensuring alignment with Refuel's overall corporate objectives in retail and wholesale fuel distribution. This leadership role involves facilitating cross-functional collaboration and optimizing internal processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across all company operations. By focusing on strategic project delivery, Laura Patin ensures timely and successful implementation of critical business plans. The Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff's contributions are vital for advancing Refuel's growth and market position.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Refuel Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Refuel?
    Refuel is led by Vishal Kaura (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 Vishal Kaura (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.