Key Takeaways
- Intrepid Potash announces Kevin S. Crutchfield as Chief Executive Officer and Board Director, effective immediately.
- Crutchfield brings over 30 years of global mining experience and over 20 years of leadership in public companies.
- Crutchfield previously served as CEO of Compass Minerals, Alpha Natural Resources, and Contura Energy.
- CFO Matt Preston will continue in his role following interim leadership during the CEO search process.
- The appointment follows a thorough search process by the Board of Directors.
Appointment Announcement
Intrepid Potash, Inc. (NYSE: IPI) has appointed Kevin S. Crutchfield as Chief Executive Officer and Board Director, effective immediately. The announcement was made today following the completion of a comprehensive search process conducted by the Board of Directors.
Leadership Background
Crutchfield has over three decades of experience in the mining industry, including more than 20 years in leadership positions at public companies. His most recent role was as President and CEO of Compass Minerals (NYSE: CMP), where he managed operations in minerals mining and brine production.
Prior to that, Crutchfield served as CEO of Alpha Natural Resources and later Contura Energy, where he led growth initiatives and strategic acquisitions. He also held executive roles at Pittston Coal Company, Cyprus Amax Minerals Company, and El Paso Corporation.
Crutchfield holds a Bachelor of Science in Mining and Minerals Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and completed the Executive Program at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business.
Comments from the Board
Barth Whitham, Chair of the Board of Intrepid, commented on the appointment: “Kevin is an accomplished and recognized executive in the mining industry who brings extensive leadership experience in navigating global industry dynamics. He has a strong track record of driving growth and enhancing production within large-scale mining operations and has a deep understanding of our products and markets. After completing a thorough and comprehensive search process, the Board is confident that Kevin is the right leader to capitalize on Intrepid’s unique market position and lead the Company into its next phase of growth.”
Intrepid Potash CEO’s Vision
In his statement, Crutchfield expressed his enthusiasm for joining Intrepid: “I am excited to join Intrepid, a company that is recognized for its high-quality, essential product, hands-on customer service, world-class team, and service to its communities. I look forward to working with the Board and talented team to build on the Company’s strong foundation, unique market position, and operational excellence to drive future growth and value for our customers, employees, and shareholders.”
Leadership Transition
Matt Preston, Intrepid’s Chief Financial Officer, who served as acting principal executive officer during the search process, will continue in his role as CFO. Barth Whitham acknowledged Preston’s contributions:
“I would also like to thank Matt for stepping in to serve as acting principal executive officer throughout our search process. He is an invaluable member of the management team, and we look forward to his continued contribution to Intrepid’s success.”
