East Coast convenience retailer Refuel has promoted co-presidents Travis Smith and Jon Rier to co-CEOs, effective July 1, according to a Tuesday announcement. They’ll replace Refuel founder Mark Jordan, who will step into the role of board chairman.
Smith and Rier became co-presidents of Refuel in early 2024. Both have been instrumental in helping the company grow its c-store network across the Carolinas, where it has about 240 locations today, according to the announcement.
“Their elevation to co-CEOs reflects the confidence we all have in their abilities and their commitment to continuing to build an extraordinary company focused on providing customers fresh food, convenience, and fast and friendly service,” Jordan said in the announcement. “I am excited to continue supporting them as Chairman and look forward to all I know is ahead for Refuel."
Smith has led Refuel’s acquisition-based growth strategy since co-founding Refuel alongside Jordan in 2016, initially serving as chief development officer and general counsel, according to his LinkedIn bio. Prior to Refuel, he spent three years on the acquisitions team at Sunoco.
Rier, who joined Refuel in 2019 as chief financial officer, previously spent 14 years with RaceTrac in various leadership roles, including senior director of financial planning and analysis and senior director of fuel transportation, according to the announcement.
In a joint statement, Smith and Rier said they’re grateful to Jordan for his trust and mentorship and for the opportunity.
“Our mission remains focused on serving our customers, delivering operational excellence, empowering our people, and building a company we're all proud to be part of,” Smith and Rier said in the announcement.
Smith and Rier’s rises to the top of Refuel continue a series of executive changes the company has made over the past year. Last summer, the company named new VPs of real estate and development, human resources, loss prevention and facilities. Later in the year, it appointed a new director of foodservice.
