Chad Huyser has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Ritchie Industries, a leading manufacturer of livestock watering solutions and a portfolio company of Granite Creek Capital Partners. Reporting to the Board of Directors, Huyser will lead the company’s continued evolution into a high-growth agricultural equipment and technology-enabled services platform through product expansion, innovation, and strategic acquisitions.
In this role, Huyser will guide transformation efforts designed to strengthen organizational capability and accelerate value creation while building on Ritchie Industries’ longstanding reputation with livestock producers.
“Ritchie Industries needed a leader who could respect its heritage while advancing the business through its next phase of growth,” said K&R Managing Director Patrick Fitzgerald. “Chad brings deep experience across agricultural equipment, automation, and dealer-led distribution, along with the leadership discipline required to guide a manufacturing organization through transformation.”
Huyser brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience across agricultural equipment and automation organizations, with particular strength in aligning product innovation, dealer networks, and customer needs to drive growth. He also offers significant experience managing complex P&Ls and leading organizations through structural change while supporting livestock producers across North American and European markets.
“Chad’s leadership style reflects both operational rigor and cultural stewardship,” said K&R Managing Partner Jon Leafstedt. “He is well positioned to help Ritchie Industries build on its legacy while advancing its long-term growth strategy.”
Founded more than a century ago, Ritchie Industries is widely recognized for its durable watering solutions serving livestock producers across North America and continues to expand its capabilities through innovation and strategic growth initiatives.
Kincannon & Reed incorporates validated interview techniques and evaluation tools to accurately assess candidates. We have the capability to measure personality traits, motivations and evaluate specific competencies and behaviors. The right assessments provide a balanced approach to understanding potential as much as experience.
Coaching empowers executives to reach their full potential faster, benefiting your organization. We partner certified coaches with executives and use a strengths-based approach to guide leaders through a process that maximizes their potential to drive success.
We bring a history of success delivering advisory and fiduciary board members specifically for family, start-up, and growth organizations. Our industry networks and broad access to executive leadership bring willing candidates from every corner of the market to serve on your board.
