Summit Materials enlists K. Watson Jr. for EVP, COO post

Sources: Summit Materials Inc., Denver; CP staff

Cemex USA and Rinker Materials veteran Karl Watson Jr. has joined Summit Materials as executive vice president and chief operating officer, succeeding Douglas Rauh. He arrives at the ready mixed, cement, aggregates and asphalt producer with 25-plus years in construction materials, most recently serving as president of Martin Marietta Materials’ Cement & Southwest Ready Mix business.

Prior to Martin Marietta, Watson led Houston-based Cemex USA. He transitioned to that role from Rinker Group, where he held senior executive posts in North America and Australia—ahead of the Cemex S.A.B. de C.V. takeover in 2007. Watson is a past (2011) National Ready Mixed Concrete Association chairman and National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association director, and currently serves on the Portland Cement Association executive committee and Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association board.

“His depth and breadth of experience in our industry will add impactful leadership to our already strong team,” affirms Summit CEO Tom Hill. “I am confident that Karl will make a great partner as we strengthen Summit for our next phase of growth.”