Retriev Technologies appoints CEO

Retriev Technologies, a battery recycler headquartered in Lancaster, Ohio, has appointed David Klanecky as its CEO. Klanecky replaces Steven Kinsbursky, who will continue to serve on the board of directors for Retriev and as president and CEO for California-based battery recycler Kinsbursky Bros. Int’l (KBI).   

According to a news release from the company, Klanecky joins from Piedmont Lithium, where he served as executive vice president and chief operating officer. The company says his hiring is intended to bolster the leadership team to take advantage of the significant growth opportunities in the rapidly expanding battery recycling market.   

“David has the perfect experience and strategic skillset to lead Retriev on its growth journey,” says Jeff Laborsky, board member of Retriev Technologies. “His deep experience in the energy storage space, as well as his diverse background in growing businesses, is a unique combination of skills that will match the activity in this rapidly growing and entrepreneurial category.”  

Before joining Piedmont Lithium, Klanecky held multiple senior management roles at Albemarle Corp., a global specialty chemicals company with leading positions in lithium, bromine and refining catalysts, including as vice president of lithium operations. Klanecky was responsible for Albemarle’s manufacturing/operations, process technology and product management within the global lithium business. He worked for The Dow Chemical Co. for 20 years and held several positions in operations, research and development, commercial and strategy. Among other assignments, he launched the Dow Energy Materials Business, which focused on lithium-ion battery materials offerings to cell manufacturers and auto original equipment manufacturers.  

“The opportunity to lead Retriev as our global economy rapidly becomes more reliant on batteries is an exciting challenge,” Klanecky says. “There are so many value-creating opportunities to identify and implement effective processes and services. I am thrilled to work with the team to strengthen our position in the marketplace.”  

In addition, Luke Kissam has been appointed to serve as chairman of the board of directors. Kissam currently serves as a partner at Bernhard Capital Partners Management. Previously, he served as chairman, president and CEO of Albemarle Corp., where he worked closely with Klanecky.  

“Luke is well-established as one of the leaders in the lithium industry and has great insight into the future,” Laborsky says. “The working relationship that he has with David, and the successes that they have shared, will provide dividends immediately.”