
Leading the Way in Industrial Solutions
At Relevant Industrial, strong leadership is at the core of everything we do. Our executive team brings deep industry expertise, strategic vision, and a passion for delivering top-tier industrial solutions. With a commitment to innovation, customer success, and operational excellence, they ensure we stay ahead in a constantly evolving industry.
Executive Leadership Team
Learn about our executive team’s leadership, & commitment to driving Relevant forward.

John Carte
Chief Executive Officer
Executive Leader
John Carte
Chief Executive Officer
Executive Leader

John Carte brings over 30 years of industrial distribution experience to Relevant Industrial, with a distinguished career spanning sales, operations management, marketing, supply chain, and executive leadership. During his 27+ years at MRC Global, he played a pivotal role in shaping business strategy and driving growth. As Senior Vice President for Valves, Automation, and Instrumentation globally, John led the development and execution of the segment’s $1.9 billion strategy, overseeing procurement and product business development on an international scale.
In 2015, John joined Eads Distribution as Chief Operating Officer, where he was instrumental in optimizing operations and enhancing business performance. Following the successful acquisition of Eads by FCx Performance, he was promoted to Division President, leading a $180 million+ business unit. In this role, he oversaw company sales and growth strategies, strategic initiatives, marketing, finance, branch operations, and supply chain management.
John’s leadership is marked by a deep understanding of industrial distribution and a results-driven approach to business transformation. He holds an Associate’s degree in Management, a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, equipping him with the expertise to drive strategic growth and operational excellence at Relevant Industrial.

Mike Singleton
Chief Financial Officer
Executive Leader
Mike Singleton
Chief Financial Officer
Executive Leader

Mike Singleton brings over 20 years of finance experience across manufacturing, fabrication, distribution, and e-commerce industries. Throughout his career, he has held key leadership roles as Finance Director and CFO for private equity-backed companies, where he played a critical role in executing strategic initiatives, optimizing accounting functions for efficiency and scalability, and leading successful acquisition integrations.
Most recently, Mike has leveraged his expertise in the e-commerce sector with Black Rifle Coffee Company and in the fabrication industry with Patriot Erectors. His ability to align financial strategy with business objectives has made him a trusted partner to senior management teams, driving sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Mike holds a Master of Business Administration from the Freeman School of Business at Tulane University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Spring Hill College, bringing a diverse and analytical approach to financial leadership.

Sam Kirkpatrick
Chief Operating Officer
Executive Leader
Sam Kirkpatrick
Chief Operating Officer
Executive Leader

Dr. Sam Kirkpatrick brings over 30 years of aerospace, automotive, and industrial experience to Relevant Industrial, with a proven track record of leadership in engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain management. During his 24-year tenure at Caterpillar, he played a critical role in driving operational excellence and business growth across multiple divisions.
As Facility Manager in Newberry, South Carolina, Sam led the introduction of six new product lines, increasing facility revenue from $160 million to $750 million. As Global Supply Chain Manager for Caterpillar’s Electric Power Division, he spearheaded a transformation of a $3.5 billion supply chain, achieving a $500 million reduction in inventory, $39 million in operating cost savings, and a 35% improvement in product lead times.
Before joining Relevant Industrial, Sam served as a Director with Alvarez & Marsal, where he specialized in operational performance improvement, helping organizations streamline processes and enhance efficiency.
Sam holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, a Doctorate in Engineering, and an MBA. He is a Chartered Engineer and an APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional, bringing both technical expertise and strategic leadership to Relevant Industrial’s operations.

Jonathan J. Ryan
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology
Jonathan J. Ryan
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology

Jonathan Ryan brings over 25 years of experience in information technology, with more than 15 years dedicated to building and leading comprehensive IT organizations. His expertise spans ERP systems, network infrastructure, hardware, acquisition integration, and supply chain integration, making him a vital asset in aligning technology with business strategy.
With a diverse background in industrial distribution, Jonathan has held key roles at DXP, United Distribution Group, and Eads Distribution, where he played a crucial role in driving IT initiatives that enhance operational efficiencies. His leadership philosophy centers on leveraging technology as a strategic resource, ensuring that IT not only supports but also accelerates business objectives.
A strong advocate for continuous learning, Jonathan recently completed the Leadership and Innovation program at MIT, reinforcing his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements. He holds a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University and continues to drive innovation and efficiency within the organizations he serves.

John Butts
Senior Vice President
Sales Leader
John Butts
Senior Vice President
Sales Leader

John Butts joined Relevant Industrial through the acquisition of Precision Fitting and Gauge in October 2019 and assumed his current role in November 2020. A seasoned executive with over 36 years of experience in sales and process control, John currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Sales, bringing a wealth of industry expertise and leadership to the organization.
Throughout his career, John has held roles ranging from Account Management to Process Controls Business Development, consistently demonstrating a strategic mindset and a strong ability to drive revenue growth. His deep background in process control allows him to deliver comprehensive solutions to clients while successfully navigating complex industrial challenges.
John is particularly skilled in leading high-performing sales organizations. His hands-on approach, combined with his strategic vision, has enabled teams to surpass targets and achieve sustained success. His leadership style blends mentorship, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, John remains dedicated to continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends. His ability to anticipate market shifts and proactively position organizations for success was a key factor in the significant growth of Precision Fitting and Gauge during his tenure.
As Senior Vice President of Sales at Relevant Industrial, John continues to drive the company’s growth with passion, integrity, and results-driven leadership. His contributions have strengthened Relevant Industrial’s position in the market, ensuring continued success in the years ahead.
John holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and an MBA with a focus on Organizational Leadership, equipping him with the strategic and operational expertise to lead in an evolving industrial landscape.

Christopher Leight
Senior Vice President
Strategic Marketing
Christopher Leight
Senior Vice President
Strategic Marketing

Chris joined Relevant Industrial in April 2018 as part of the Rotating Equipment business, bringing with him nearly two decades of leadership experience from Ingersoll Rand. Over his 18-year tenure at IR, he held key roles across sales, marketing, service operations, and product management within the Compression Technologies and Industrial Tools divisions. In his final role at Ingersoll Rand, Chris led global sales process improvements for the Compression Technology business, driving efficiency and revenue growth on an international scale.
Prior to that, he managed a major region of IR’s Compression Technology service centers, overseeing more than 300 employees and $100 million in revenue. His leadership is defined by a track record of profitable growth, a deep commitment to customer satisfaction, and the development of diverse, high-performing teams.
Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in Management and Leadership from Judson University and an MBA from Liberty University, equipping him with the strategic expertise to drive operational excellence and business growth at Relevant Industrial.

Krisztina Merritt
Vice President
Human Resources
Krisztina Merritt
Vice President
Human Resources

Krisztina Merritt is a seasoned HR executive with a strong track record of driving organizational success through strategic human resource leadership. As Vice President of Human Resources at Relevant Industrial, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring HR remains a key driver of the company’s growth and innovation. With over 20 years of experience, Krisztina brings deep expertise in talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational effectiveness. She is passionate about cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes open communication, empowers employees to reach their full potential, and enhances overall efficiency.
Her leadership has led to the successful implementation of performance management and employee engagement strategies that have significantly reduced regrettable turnover, improved managerial effectiveness, and elevated the overall employee experience. Beyond her role at Relevant Industrial, Krisztina has held key HR leadership positions across industries including oil and gas, electronics, and finance, further broadening her perspective on workforce strategy and organizational development.
Committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, Krisztina ensures that every employee’s contributions are valued. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and an MBA with a focus on Organizational Change, equipping her with the knowledge and expertise to drive meaningful transformation within the workplace.

John Wilson
Senior Vice President
Corporate Development
John Wilson
Senior Vice President
Corporate Development

John brings over 38 years of expertise in industrial distribution, with a career spanning multiple leadership roles across key operational areas. Beginning at Wilson Mohr in 1985, he played a pivotal role in the company’s expansion, contributing to its success in fabrication, warehouse management, inside sales, human resources, and overall operations. His strategic leadership was instrumental in scaling Wilson Mohr from $3 million to over $50 million in revenue by 2010, culminating in its acquisition by LKCM.
Today, John applies his extensive industry knowledge to Relevant Industrial, where he focuses on Acquisition Opportunities, Corporate Insurance Coverage, Contracts, and Fleet Management, ensuring the company’s continued growth and operational excellence.
Board Of Directors
Meet the Leaders Shaping Relevant Industrial’s Future

J. Bryan King
Partner & Financial Sponsor
LKCM Headwater
J. Bryan King
Partner & Financial Sponsor
LKCM Headwater

J. Bryan King is a Managing Partner of LKCM Headwater Investments, where he has overseen micro and small-cap public and private investments since 1994. As the Founder and Managing Partner of LKCM Capital Group since 2000, he has led the firm’s long/short, microcap, private equity, and alternative investment strategies, playing a key role in identifying and growing high-potential businesses.
Mr. King established the LKCM Distribution Holdings oversight advisory board, bringing together industry experts and thought leaders to support investment activities across distribution, packaging, shop and field services, engineering services, and rental-based businesses. He has served as Chairman of the Board and Managing Partner for numerous companies, including Lawson, TestEquity, Relevant Industrial, Leading Quality Assurance, Archer Systems, Independent Life, Industrial Distribution Group, Rawson, and Golden State Medical Supply. In addition, he has contributed his expertise to numerous other public and private company boards, as well as civic organizations.
A strong advocate for strategic growth and operational excellence, Mr. King brings a deep understanding of investment management and business leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Princeton University, a Ranch Management degree from Texas Christian University, and a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School.

Ben Andrews
Director
Relevant Industrial
Ben Andrews
Director
Relevant Industrial

Ben Andrews joined the Relevant Industrial Board of Directors in 2020, bringing over 20 years of experience in driving operational excellence and creating shareholder value. His leadership is rooted in optimizing organizational efficiency, employee development, and strategic sales implementation.
Ben previously served as Chief Operations Officer of Relevant Industrial in 2016 before being promoted to Chief Executive Officer in 2017. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its operational capabilities and strategic direction. Prior to his tenure at Relevant Industrial, he held several executive roles, most notably as Executive Vice President of GHX Industrial, LLC, where he played a key role in business growth and operational strategy.
A Certified Public Accountant in the State of Texas, Ben holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from the University of Texas at Austin. His financial acumen, operational expertise, and leadership continue to be instrumental in the success of Relevant Industrial.

Tom Comstock
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater
Tom Comstock
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater

Tom Comstock is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in industrial distribution, flow control, and petrochemical services. He currently serves as a board member for Relevant Industrial, TestEquity, and Relevant Power Solutions, bringing strategic leadership and industry expertise to these organizations.
From 2003 to 2016, Tom was the CEO of Rawson, guiding the company through significant growth and its eventual sale by LKCM to ERIKS in 2013. Prior to Rawson, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Furmanite, a petrochemical service company, where he played a key role in operational leadership and business expansion.
Tom spent 16 years with Keystone International, a leading flow control company, where he held multiple leadership positions. During his tenure, he served as President of Keystone International’s Industrial Valve Group in Europe for three years, overseeing operations and driving market growth.
He holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Texas A&M University, equipping him with a strong foundation in business strategy, technology, and industrial operations. His extensive experience and leadership continue to provide valuable guidance to the organizations he supports.

Tom Felter
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater
Tom Felter
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater

Tom Felter brings extensive experience in sales, executive management, and industrial distribution, with a distinguished career spanning leadership roles across major valve, automation, and instrumentation companies. He was elected to the Luther King Capital Management Industrial Distribution boards as a member, partner, and consultant, leveraging his industry expertise to drive strategic initiatives and operational excellence.
Throughout his career, Mr. Felter has served as a consultant for leading industrial companies, including Flowserve and SSP Instrumentation, as well as a Louisiana CPA firm. His leadership journey began in 1996 when he joined Carter Chambers, LLC in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Over the years, he took on increasing responsibilities, ultimately serving as President and CEO from 1999 until the company’s acquisition by Pon Holdings in 2009. Following the sale, he continued with Pon Holdings as Director of Business Development for its subsidiary, PVI Holdings, until October 2012.
Before his tenure at Carter Chambers, Mr. Felter managed valve and automation accounts at Valvax Corporation. He previously spent 11 years at the Duriron Company (now Flowserve Corporation), progressing through senior management roles in the industrial and control valve divisions across multiple locations.
Mr. Felter began his career at Olin Corporation in Baton Rouge after earning a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Louisiana State University. His extensive industry experience, strategic vision, and leadership acumen make him a valuable asset to the organizations he serves.

Art French
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater
Art French
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater

Art French brings over four decades of executive leadership and board experience across industrial sectors, serving in key roles that have shaped the success of multiple organizations. His career includes directorships at Fab Tech Industries (2000-2009), Houston Plating and Coatings Company (2002-2007), and Rawson LP (2003-2009), where he later became non-executive Chairman of the Board for Rawson Holdings, LLC (2009-2010). He has also contributed his expertise as a member of the advisory board of Main Street Capital Partners, LLC and as a limited partner of Main Street Mezzanine Fund, LP.
Currently, Mr. French serves as an advisor to LKCM Capital Group, LLC, the alternative investment arm of Luther King Capital Management. His leadership background includes serving as Chairman and CEO of Metals USA Inc., where he led the company through a successful IPO in 1997. Prior to that, he was Executive Vice President and a director of Keystone International, Inc.
Mr. French began his career as a Sales Engineer at Fisher Controls International, Inc., where he held various leadership positions over 23 years, ultimately serving as President, COO, and a board director. His broad industry experience, strategic insight, and operational leadership make him a valuable advisor and board member.
A former helicopter pilot and Captain in the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Mr. French holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering and General Business from Texas A&M University.

Barry Lawrence
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater
Barry Lawrence
Independent Director
LKCM Headwater

Dr. Barry Lawrence has been a member of the Relevant Industrial Board of Directors since 2014, bringing extensive expertise in industrial distribution, supply chain management, and business strategy. A distinguished professor at Texas A&M University, he serves as the Coordinator of the Industrial Distribution Program, Director of the Thomas and Joan Read Center for Distribution Research and Education, and Director of the Global Supply Chain Laboratory. He also holds the esteemed Leonard and Valerie Bruce Leadership Chair.
Dr. Lawrence’s faculty responsibilities include teaching graduate, undergraduate, and professional continuing education courses in logistics, supply chain management, distribution strategy, and distribution information systems. He is deeply involved in research, publications, and industry presentations, frequently speaking at distribution associations and companies on topics such as market growth optimization, sales and marketing strategy, inventory and asset management, network improvements, transportation logistics, and best practices in distribution operations.
Beyond academia, Dr. Lawrence has contributed to numerous large-scale industry projects and has over 12 years of hands-on experience in sales and retail business. His deep industry knowledge and research-driven insights make him a valuable asset to the Relevant Industrial Board.
Dr. Lawrence holds a Ph.D. in Information and Operations Management from Texas A&M University, an MBA from Texas State University, and a bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Texas at Austin.

Andrew D. Zacharias
Partner
LKCM Headwater
Andrew D. Zacharias
Partner
LKCM Headwater

Andrew D. Zacharias is a Partner at LKCM Headwater Investments, where he provides strategic leadership in private equity and investment management. He currently serves on the boards of Relevant Industrial, TestEquity, Resource Minerals, Building Controls & Solutions, Relevant Rental, and RPS, in addition to several civic and charitable boards in Fort Worth.
With a career spanning investment banking, private equity, and executive management, Andrew previously served as Vice President at Pacesetter Capital Group, where he executed and managed private equity and mezzanine debt investments across the media, manufacturing, and service sectors. Prior to that, he was CFO and COO of Street Advisor, an independent equity research firm. Earlier in his career, Andrew worked in the Corporate Finance Group at Bear Stearns, focusing on equity and debt offerings, mergers and acquisitions, and private placements across multiple industries in the Southwest U.S. His finance career began as an intern analyst at LKCM while completing his undergraduate studies.
Andrew holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Accounting from Texas Christian University. He earned a joint MBA and Master’s in Engineering Management from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where he was recognized as an Austin Scholar. He is also a candidate for the Turnaround Management Association’s Certified Turnaround Professional (CTP) designation, further solidifying his expertise in financial strategy and business transformation.

Joel D. Stewart
Principal
LKCM Headwater
Joel D. Stewart
Principal
LKCM Headwater

Joel D. Stewart is a Principal with LKCM Headwater Investments, where he plays a key role in identifying and evaluating new investment opportunities, conducting due diligence, structuring transactions, and supporting portfolio companies in achieving long-term growth.
Before joining LKCM, Joel was a Vice President at The Presidio Group in San Francisco, where he focused on investing in lower-middle market companies and advising clients on M&A and private placement transactions. Prior to that, he served as a Principal at 6Pacific Partners, a boutique merchant bank specializing in the food, beverage, and nutrition industries. He began his career as an Investment Banker at JPMorgan, gaining a strong foundation in financial strategy and capital markets.
Joel holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Economics from Baylor University and an MBA from The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas. His expertise in investment management, strategic growth, and financial structuring makes him a key contributor to LKCM Headwater Investments’ success.

Scott F. Oman
Vice President
LKCM Headwater
Scott F. Oman
Vice President
LKCM Headwater

Scott F. Oman serves as a Vice President with LKCM Headwater Investments, where he plays a key role in identifying new investment opportunities, conducting due diligence, structuring transactions, and supporting portfolio companies. His expertise in private equity and financial strategy positions him as a valuable asset in driving investment growth and operational excellence.
Before joining LKCM, Scott was a Senior Associate at Hudson Advisors, an affiliate of Lone Star Funds, where he was responsible for executing and managing private equity and debt investments across North America. Prior to that, he gained extensive experience in investment banking as an Analyst with Bank of America Merrill Lynch in Houston, specializing in M&A advisory and public capital raises within the energy sector.
Scott graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Cum Laude from Southern Methodist University, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Bachelor of Arts in History. His strong analytical background, strategic financial insight, and hands-on investment experience make him a critical contributor to LKCM Headwater Investments’ success.
Build Your Future With Relevant
At Relevant Industrial, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step, our team is built on problem solvers, action takers, and people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
We invest in our employees, providing the resources, training, and support needed to grow. If you’re ready to take ownership of your career and make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.