Cleveland, Ohio, United States, October 2025 — Austin Powder, a global leader in industrial explosives manufacturing, has announced the appointment of Brian Richardson as its Chief People Officer. In this strategic role, Brian will lead the company’s global human resources agenda, focusing on strengthening culture, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness across its operations in more than 27 countries.
With over three decades of leadership experience across industrial, financial, and manufacturing sectors, Brian brings deep expertise in human capital strategy, transformation, and executive leadership. Prior to joining Austin Powder, he served as Chief Human Resources Officer at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, where he was part of the executive leadership team and led the HR and organizational communications functions for the Fourth District of the U.S. Central Bank.
Before that, Brian spent more than nine years at Covia, where he held several executive roles including Executive Vice President, Chief People and Administrative Officer and Chief Transformation Officer. During his tenure, he played a key role in transforming Covia from an energy-focused commodities organization into a growth-oriented, innovation-led industrial products company. He also led Human Resources, IT, ESG, and Communications functions while partnering closely with private equity sponsors.
Earlier, Brian dedicated over two decades to Sherwin-Williams, serving as Senior Vice President, Human Resources – Global Finishes Group, and previously as Vice President, Human Resources – Latin America Coatings Group and Vice President, Human Resources – Diversified Brands. Across these leadership roles, he developed global HR frameworks that supported growth, talent mobility, and operational excellence across multiple continents.
At Austin Powder, Brian’s extensive experience in transformation and people leadership will be pivotal in advancing the company’s commitment to innovation, performance culture, and workforce development in its global operations.
About Austin Powder
Founded in 1833, Austin Powder has grown from a small black powder producer into a global leader in industrial explosives, operating across more than 27 countries with 30 manufacturing plants and over 4,800 employees. With nearly two centuries of expertise, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to safety, quality, and innovation, supporting industries worldwide through cutting-edge blasting technologies and sustainable practices.
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