Gopher Resource adds two executives

Gopher Resource, a national environmental solutions provider specializing in lead battery recycling based in Eagan, Minnesota, announced Jan. 3 that Brian Leen has been appointed president and CEO. Most recently, Leen held the same position with ADA Carbon Solutions, based in Colorado. He replaces Jeffrey Jacobsen who retired in October and remains on the company’s board.

Joining Leen on the executive leadership team is Eric Robinson in the newly created position of senior vice president and COO. Robinson also comes to Gopher Resource from ADA Carbon Solutions. In his new roles, Robinson will focus on continual process improvement, quality control, and advancing overall safety and environmental standards. 

Jacobsen explained that in addition to Leen and Robinson’s combined 55 years of experience in the specialty chemicals and materials industries, both men have extensive knowledge of Gopher Resource. They are on the company’s board and were highly involved in the early 2018 acquisition of Gopher Resource by Energy Capital Partners, Short Hills, New Jersey, who also owned ADA Carbon Solutions.

“Brian is the right person to lead us during this very dynamic time in our industry. We’re confident that his leadership style and knowledge of the energy industry, along with Eric’s operational expertise, will take Gopher Resource to the next level of excellence. We’ll continue to honor our long-standing commitment to providing customers with the best experience in our industry, through safe and environmentally focused recycling.” Jacobsen says.

“The lead battery industry is in a time of great change and innovation,” Leen says. “Battery manufacturers are working to enhance battery performance and protect the environment. Gopher Resource plays an incredibly important role ensuring that the end of life for these batteries are managed in a safe, clean and environmentally responsible way, while providing customers with the reliability, innovation and service that they need.”