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Mr. Ruiz joined Vertex Energy in September 2013. During his tenure with the Company, he has been responsible for identifying, developing, and executing both strategic commercial and market opportunities, including the execution of the Mobile refinery acquisition in early 2022. Mr. Ruiz's main focus at Vertex has been working with the leadership team to identify, develop and execute strategic commercial and market opportunities, including strategic acquisitions in support of the company's vision, mission, and tactical growth strategy. Mr. Ruiz also has an active role in managing the relationships with investors and the banking community. Prior to Vertex, Mr. Ruiz held numerous senior management positions throughout his 20 years of experience in the equipment manufacturing, telecom, energy, automotive and environmental services industry sectors. Mr. Ruiz has a solid international background in Europe and Latin America and his leadership positions have included marketing, finance, business development, operations, sales, and project management. Mr. Ruiz received a degree in Electric and Electronic Engineering from the Valladolid Polytechnic, Spain, in 1993 and holds an Executive MBA from IE Business School and a Masters in Marketing and Sales from ESIC Business School.