US packaged gas distribution network Meritus Gas Partners has appointed Robert D’Alessandro as President and Chief Operating Officer.
D’Alessandro has served as Vice-Chairman of the Meritus board since the company’s founding in 2021 but is now taking on an expanded role.
He will work with the company’s chairman and CEO, Scott Kaltrider, to oversee the company’s growing portfolio of operating companies and work on strategy. He will also lead the company’s future acquisitions.
In its four years of operation, Meritus has acquired 30 independent distributors across the US with over 90 locations and continues to seek what it terms ‘platform partners’ to fill geographic gaps.
D’Alessandro said he was excited to take on the expanded role.
“We are well on our way to building a nationwide network of independent distributors, and I look forward to executing on our growth plans in this new role,” he added.
In addition to D’Alessandro’s appointment, Meritus has also announced the formation of an operating council to identify and adopt best practices across its operating companies.
The council is formed of five leaders from Meritus companies, including Steve Bogard, who is Chair and Vice-President of Meritus West Region, Ryan Diekow, President and CEO of Oxygen Service Company, and Jeff Palmer, Vice-President of Meritus Texas. Also on the council are Steve Stobaugh, President of Meritus Great Plains, and James Garner, President of Ozarc Gas and Equipment.
D’Alessandro described the council as an important milestone in Mertius’ growth trajectory.
“The council will be instrumental in defining the direction of Meritus. It will ensure we are making the best decisions for our partners, capitalising on best practices and realising the advantages of being a multi-region player.”
