Retriev Technologies Appoints David Klanecky as Chief Executive Officer
Established Lithium Industry Veteran Joins Newly Expanded Company With Luke Kissam to Serve as Chairman of Board of Directors
INDIANAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Retriev Technologies, the most comprehensive lithium battery recycler in North America and the pioneer in end-of-life battery management, has appointed David Klanecky as its CEO. He joins from Piedmont Lithium, where he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In a related move, Luke Kissam has been appointed to serve as chairman of the board of directors.
Retriev is bolstering its leadership team to take advantage of the significant growth opportunities in the rapidly expanding battery recycling market. Today Retriev is North America’s largest and most diverse lithium-ion battery processer and is evolving its offering to provide a comprehensive recycling and reuse battery management platform.
“David has the perfect experience and strategic skillset to lead Retriev on its growth journey,” said Jeff Laborsky, board member, Retriev Technologies. “His deep experience in the energy storage space as well as his diverse background in growing businesses is a unique combination of skills that will match the activity in this rapidly growing and entrepreneurial category.”
Prior to Piedmont Lithium, Klanecky held multiple senior management roles at Albemarle Corporation, a global specialty chemicals company with leading positions in lithium, bromine and refining catalysts, including Vice President – Lithium Operations – APAC/EU, with global responsibility for Albemarle’s manufacturing/operations, process technology and product management within the global lithium business. He held several operations, research and development, commercial and strategic positions during a 20-year stint at The Dow Chemical Company. Among other assignments, he launched the Dow Energy Materials Business, which focused on Lithium-Ion Battery Materials offerings to cell manufacturers and Auto OEM.
“The opportunity to lead Retriev as our global economy rapidly becomes more reliant on batteries is an exciting challenge,” said Klanecky. “There are so many value-creating opportunities to identify and implement effective processes and services, and I am thrilled to work with the team to strengthen our position in the marketplace.”
Mr. Kissam currently serves as partner at Bernhard Capital Partners Management, LP. Previously, he served as Chairman, President, and CEO of Albemarle Corporation, where he worked closely with Klanecky.
“Luke is well-established as one of the leaders in the lithium industry and has great insight into the future,” said Laborsky. “The working relationship that he has with David, and the successes that they have shared, will provide dividends immediately.”
“The ability to successfully collect, recycle and regenerate battery power to meet the demand that is coming our way is the next great challenge,” said Kissam. “I am ready to support David and his team to help accelerate the process.”
Retriev Technologies is backed by the power of Indiana-based The Heritage Group and affiliates and California-based Kinsbursky Bros. Int’l (KBI). Steven Kinsbursky will continue to serve on the board of directors for Retriev and as president and CEO for KBI.
About Retriev Technologies
Retriev, the recognized leader in battery management and recycling, has been at the forefront of safe and responsible recycling technology for decades, processing lithium batteries for over 30 years. Retriev utilizes a patented hydrometallurgical process which recovers critical materials necessary for the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries that are used to power our world. Retriev’s reputation is built on research, knowledge, compliance and responsible battery recycling and management services.
For more information, visit www.SolvedByRetriev.com
About The Heritage Group
Founded in 1930, The Heritage Group (THG) is a fourth-generation, family-owned business managing a diverse portfolio of companies specializing in heavy construction and materials, environmental services, and specialty chemicals. Companies within the THG portfolio include Heritage Environmental Services, Heritage Construction + Materials, and Monument Chemical. With more than 5,000 employees and 30 operating companies worldwide, THG aims to build a safer, more enriching, and sustainable world by harnessing the power of family.
For more information, visit http://www.thgrp.com/
About KBI
KBI is a fully permitted battery management and recycling operation in Southern California. KBI has over 60 years of experience as specialists in the recovery of metals from end-of-life batteries and precious metals from automotive catalysts. As hands on collaborative consultants and custom solution providers, KBI is known for knowledge, environmental integrity, proprietary technologies, service excellence and custom recycling programs that push the envelope of possibilities for sustainability that sets them apart from the competition. KBI is the ultimate downstream recycler that the industry trusts.
Contacts
Brian Laughran
O’Malley Hansen Communications
773-726-1842
brian.laughran@omalleyhansen.com
