Northern Tier Energy CEO Mario Rodriguez Resigns
RIDGEFIELD, Conn. – Northern Tier Energy LP CEO Mario Rodriguez resigned from his position today. Rodriguez will be replaced as CEO of the parent company of SuperAmerica convenience stores by co-founder Hank Kuchta.
“With the announcement of two consecutive quarters of record operating and financial results, the successful completion of the initial public offering of Northern Tier Energy, and the completion of our recent debt refinancing, I felt the time was right for me to step down and explore new opportunities,” Rodriguez stated in a press release. “I am happy to leave Northern Tier Energy in the very capable hands of Hank Kuchta, who has been with the company since its inception in December 2010.”
Prior to founding Northern Tier Energy with Rodriguez, Kuchta was president and chief operating officer of Premcor, which operated four U.S. refineries. The company was sold to Valero Corp.in 2005.
Kuchta also served as business development manager for Phillips 66. “Mario and I co-founded [Northern Tier Energy] and I have been president and chief operating officer since the beginning,” said Kuchta. “The company has had many achievements under our leadership and is in a strong financial position. I look forward to the opportunity to lead this company to a bright future and I am fortunate to take the reigns of Northern Tier Energy following our recent third-quarter results and initial cash distribution.”
Dan Smith, chairman of the board for Northern Tier Energy, thanked Rodriguez for his contributions and wished him the best in his future endeavors. “We are fortunate to have Hank lead Northern Tier Energy and expect, with his background not only with Northern Tier Energy but in the energy and refining business, to have a smooth transition,” said Smith.
Northern Tier Energy LP operates 166 SuperAmerica convenience stores and supports another 68 franchised c-stores, primarily in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The company also owns a bakery and commissary under the SuperMom’s brand name.