Vertex Energy, an environmental services company that recycles industrial waste streams and off-specification commercial chemical products, announced John Strickland, its long-time Manager of Supply, has been promoted to the post of Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective immediately.
Strickland will succeed David Peel, who will retire at the end of the year.
Strickland, 61, joined Vertex in late 2007 and has over 30 years of experience building relationships and developing companies in the recycling of used oils and fuel blending.
In his various positions, he has grown used oil collection fleets, environmental service programs (non-hazardous), terminalling businesses for #6-oil from water ports and helped develop software for used oil collection operations.
Benjamin P. Cowart, CEO of Vertex, said, “John Strickland has done a remarkable job for us in the Black Oil Division and is in touch with every supplier on a daily basis. He has a good understanding of the industry and our business, and he is a key player in helping us address industry challenges.”
“We are confident that he is the right man for the job, and we anticipate his contributions will likely grow in magnitude as his responsibilities expand,” Cowart added.
David Peel, the current COO of Vertex, said, “I am very pleased that John will be succeeding me as COO, and I am confident that he will excel in the role. Although I am retiring as an executive, I will remain with Vertex in a consultative role to support John, Ben, and the rest of the amazing team at Vertex.”