Leighton O’Brien, Australian base, international fuel analytics software and technology provider, has announced change at the helm. Marking the commencement of a new chapter for the industry powerhouse, the change will see CEO and co-founder Reed Leighton stepping into the position of Executive Chair of the Board, and Chris Cooper being appointed CEO.
Leighton O’Brien is an Australian company that has been providing fuel software analytics and technologies to retail and commercial fuel operations for over 25 years.
Specialising in software and technology to monito, test, clean and optimise operators fuel systems and the whole fuel asset, Leighton O’Brien solutions include real time wetstock management, Automatic Tank Gauging alarm management, VMI forecasting, UST compliance testing and tank cleaning as well as fuel restoration.
Priding themselves on certified quality solutions Leighton O’Brien delivers accurate lead detection, minimising fuel losses, lowering operational costs and enhancing profitability and asset life in over 32 countries through more than 80 licenced service partners.
The change at the helm of Leighton O’Brien marks the start of a new phase, but one that founding partner and outgoing CEO Reed Leighton notes is exciting and will see his legacy in safe steady hands.
“This is an exciting new chapter for Leighton O’Brien, and I congratulate Chris on his appointment. We’ve worked hand in glove over the last few years, and I have every confidence Chris will lead the company with innovation, foresight and passion,” outlines Mr Leighton.
“The time is right. Chris has been instrumental in operationally structuring the business to grow from a position of strength. We grew almost 40 per cent last year, and Chris will no doubt continue our upward trajectory, executing on our corporate strategy, driving continuous improvement and building on our strong culture”, continues Reed.
Incoming CEO Mr Cooper is no stranger to the industry having held senior management roles with industry heavyweights including Dover Fueling Solutions, OPW and Gilbarco Veeder-Root across a diverse set of geographic territories, before joining Leighton O’Brien three years ago, first in the capacity of Global President of Field Technologies and then stepping up to Chief Operating Officer in late 2020
In the COO role Chris guided Leighton O’Brien to stellar marked and partner growth, as well as overseeing the launch of a new Energy Services division. This was complimented by an enhanced a range of internal systems and processes to achieve operational efficiencies and improved reporting.
“Chris is the complete package. He has deep global experience and industry connections, outstanding strategic, commercial and M&A expertise, a sharp performance and business process focus, and a high level of professionalism and integrity”, Mr Leighton said.
The admiration is mutual.
Mr Cooper noted: “Reed and Steve have had an indelible impact on the retail fuel industry; their influence in raising the bar on environmental standards and leak detection practices for the benefit of customers over the last 25 years is unsurpassed”.
“It is a privilege to take on the role of CEO for a business with such immense talent, a market-leading technology portfolio, valued partners and first-class customers”, continued Chris.
“I’m grateful to Reed, Steve and the Board for their faith in me to lead this business which is superbly positioned to accelerate the delivery of our strategic growth ambitions based on our industry-leading IP embedded in our software solutions and technologies”, added Chris.
“Much of the ‘heavy lifting’ has been done. I’m looking forward to executing on our growth strategy and maximising the significant opportunities ahead, supported by a strong management team”, concluded Chris.
Outgoing CEO Reed Leighton will not be going far, he will become the new Executive Chair of the Board and will continue directing business development in the US market, as well as providing strategic guidance on global market growth.
“Congratulations Reed and Chris. We look forward to seeing the growth and service continue as you both explore your new roles”, added ACAPMA CEO Mark McKenzie.
More information
For more information on Leighton O’Brien see https://www.leightonobrien.com/.
ACAPMA Partners
ACAPMA Partners are product, service and technology suppliers to the wholesale and retail petrol and convenience industry and their support of the Association allows for ACAPMA to continue its critical services for all ACAPMA Members. To learn more about all of the ACAPMA Partners and what they can offer industry, or to explore Partnership please visit; https://acapma.com.au/partnership/.
Elisha Radwanowski BCom (HRM&IR)
ACAPMA
Published with permission from ACAPMA.
Source: https://acapmag.com.au/2022/02/partner-highlight-change-at-the-top-of-leighton-obrien/
