Compass Minerals International Inc., based in Overland Park, has announced the appointment of Edward Dowling Jr. as the new CEO and president, succeeding Kevin Crutchfield. This leadership change comes as Crutchfield, who has led the company since April 2019, steps down from his role and the board.
Key Leadership Changes:
- Edward Dowling Jr.: New CEO and President, joined the board in March 2022.
- Kevin Crutchfield: Stepping down as CEO and from the board, will continue as a consultant through the fiscal year’s end.
Company’s Milestones under Crutchfield:
- Compass Minerals made significant progress in safety and strategic areas, notably in the Fire Retardant business.
- Crutchfield was a top-earning executive with a total compensation of $10.61 million in 2022.
Future Outlook with Dowling’s Leadership:
- The company aims to focus on cost reduction, driving positive free cash flow, and leveraging its unique assets for sustained value generation.
- Dowling’s extensive leadership experience in the mining sector is expected to be instrumental in guiding Compass Minerals’ growth.
Financial Performance and Business Strategy:
- Fiscal Year 2023: Revenue of $1.20 billion and net income of $15.5 million.
- Compass Minerals is a leading provider of essential minerals like salt and plant nutrition products.
- A significant project to produce lithium from the Great Salt Lake has been halted due to environmental concerns.
Dowling’s Background:
- Previous CEO roles at Meridian Gold Inc. and Alacer Gold Corp. (now SSR Mining Inc.).
- Held executive positions at De Beers S.A. and Cleveland Cliffs Inc.
- Currently on the board of Teck Resources Ltd., Canada’s largest diversified mining company.
Recent Executive Appointment: 
- Jeffrey Cathey named as Chief Accounting Officer, marking the second CAO appointment in two years.
