One of the firm’s co-founders and its current president, Thomas Meth, was appointed to the sustainable energy leader’s top role.

Powder Bulk Solids Staff

November 14, 2022

2 Min Read
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Representative imageImage courtesy of Pixabay

Industrial wood pellets manufacturer Enviva appointed its president and co-founder Thomas Meth as its new chief executive officer, a company release announced Monday. The executive was also named to the Bethesda, MD-based company’s board of directors.

Current CEO and chairman John Keppler will transition to a new role as executive chairman under a succession plan created by Enviva’s board. Prior to the transition, Keppler will step way from his responsibilities to receive treatment for a cardiac valve issue. Keppler co-founded Enviva with Meth in 2004.

“After careful consideration, I have decided with my medical team and family to step back and focus on my heart condition,” said Keppler in a statement. “The board and I are delighted that Thomas Meth will serve as our next CEO. Thomas has been my closest business partner in building Enviva into the great company it is today, and I know he will continue to excel in leading Enviva’s growth trajectory as we execute our plan for the future. Thomas is an exceptionally skilled leader who has full command of all facets of the company and has earned the respect of our employees, customers, investors, and other key stakeholders.”

Meth will continue to hold his title as president following the transition. Keppler is expected to return to active service as executive chairman in early 2023.

Board member Ralph Alexander will temporarily carry out Keppler’s duties during his absence. Alexander is slated to become lead independent director when the executive resumes working.

“All of us at Enviva wish John the best as he prioritizes his health and full recovery, and we look forward to his return as Executive Chairman,” Meth said in the release. “We are laser-focused on executing the previously announced business plan and are on track to deliver results for 2022 in line with the expectations we outlined recently on our third-quarter earnings call. The world wants cost-effective, ready-to-deploy bio-based alternatives to fossil fuels, from secure sources, and that’s exactly what we offer.”

During his time with Enviva, Meth has led business development, sales and commercial customer relations, fiber procurement, and sustainability functions.

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Powder Bulk Solids Staff

Established in 1983, Powder & Bulk Solids (PBS) serves industries that process, handle, and package dry particulate matter, including the food, chemical, and pharmaceutical markets.

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