Careers Rich Crawford
Chief Executive Officer, IGS
Expertise: Corporate Leadership | Global Strategy | Surface Protection Industries | Sustainable Growth
Rich Crawford is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Integrated Global Services (IGS), a global leader in on-site surface protection and efficiency solutions for mission-critical industrial equipment. Since joining IGS in 2009, he has led the company through significant transformation. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operations across six continents, introduced proprietary thermal spray and corrosion-protection technologies, and achieved more than tenfold revenue growth.
Credentials
A results-driven executive and visionary leader, Rich Crawford combines strategic acumen with a deep commitment to innovation, sustainability, and people-first leadership. Under his direction, IGS has become a global benchmark for excellence in surface protection, thermal spray technologies, and environmental performance.
Leadership and Achievements
- CEO at IGS since 2009, leading the company’s evolution into a world-class surface protection provider
- Oversaw delivery of 7,800+ projects across 78 countries, maintaining an average 4.85/5 customer satisfaction rating since 2019
- Championed the creation of proprietary coating and inspection technologies that extend asset life, improve efficiency, and reduce emissions
- Guided environmental initiatives reducing NOx emissions by up to 30% and CO₂ by up to 15% for customers
- Executed six strategic acquisitions and expanded IGS’s footprint across energy, refining, and power generation industries
- Achieved 12x revenue growth and 50x EBITDA growth during tenure
Private Equity and Strategic Partnerships
Rich has successfully led multiple private equity transitions, fostering sustainable growth through strategic investment partnerships:
- Mangrove Equity Partners (2010–2014)
- Industrial Growth Partners (2014–2020)
- J.F. Lehman & Co. (2020–2025)
- American Securities (2025–present)
Patents & Technical Contributions
Co-inventor on multiple international patents related to flue gas filtration and ash control systems:
- Flue Gas Filters – EU 002320572-0001 to -0004 (Issued Oct 4, 2013)
- Design for Coated Screen for Large Particle Ash Control – US 29452079 (Filed Apr 11, 2013)
- Apparatus and Methods for Large Particle Ash Separation from Flue Gas Using Screens Having Semi-Elliptical Cylinder Surfaces – CN 201210444088.7 (Filed Nov 8, 2012)
- Apparatus and Methods for Large Particle Ash Separation from Flue Gas Using Screens Having Semi-Elliptical Cylinder Surfaces – US 13/633,717 (Filed Oct 2, 2012)
Career & Education Highlights:
Previous Experience
- Vice President, Harris Williams & Co. / Cobblestone Advisors (2004–2009) – M&A advisory for mid-market clients
- Senior Financial Analyst, Capital One Financial Corporation (2000–2003)
- Senior Accountant, Ernst & Young LLP (1998–2000)
Education
- MBA, University of Virginia Darden School of Business
- BSBA, Accounting and Business Administration, University of Richmond
Articles:
Digital Refining – Integrated Global Services Sees Doubling of Pipeline Growth and Eyes Exponential Growth
Article Summary
Fired heaters are the largest fuel consumers in a refinery, emitting an estimated 400 to 500 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) every year, so even minor improvements in their efficiency can lead to significant savings. To put it into perspective, if any fired heater is 1 or 2% inefficient, it can consume an additional $1m in fuel over a year.
Big Magazine – IGS’ Crawford reflects on brisk company growth
Article Summary
Steam Methane Reformers (SMRs), the dominant technology in global hydrogen production, achieve 65-75% efficiency rates, but continue to face significant operational challenges. This article explores technological advancements addressing efficiency limitations, heat transfer issues, and emissions reduction strategies in hydrogen production facilities.
Big Magazine – Major Global Acquisition Promises Enhanced Capability
Article Summary
Steam Methane Reformers (SMRs), the dominant technology in global hydrogen production, achieve 65-75% efficiency rates, but continue to face significant operational challenges. This article explores technological advancements addressing efficiency limitations, heat transfer issues, and emissions reduction strategies in hydrogen production facilities.