KASCO is excited to announce that Ryan Lepp has officially stepped into the role of President as of the end of January. With a strong background in manufacturing and service, combined with a passion for leadership and growth, Ryan is eager to guide KASCO into its next chapter.
A Path to Leadership
Ryan’s journey to KASCO is one shaped by strategic growth and a passion for leadership. Prior to joining KASCO, he served as Senior Vice President and General Manager at a private equity-backed company. His role was to drive profitability, and after successfully doing so, the company was sold last spring.
Following that milestone, Ryan was faced with a pivotal decision—stay where he was, join a larger company in a leadership team role, or take the reins of a company himself. His choice was clear: he wanted to lead.
“I was looking for the right fit—a company with the right size, the right culture, and one where I could make a real impact. Within a few months, I was introduced to KASCO, and it just felt like a good fit,” Ryan shared. “It has a manufacturing backbone, which I love, a service element that aligns with my experience, and a Midwest feel that I connect with.”
Excited for What’s Ahead
What excites Ryan most about his role at KASCO? The people.
“So far, I’ve been really encouraged by the level of curiosity and engagement from the team,” he said. “When people are asking questions and genuinely interested in learning, that’s a great sign. I think there are a lot of opportunities for us to improve and grow, and I’m excited that people are open to the possibilities.”
A Leadership Style Built on Adaptability
When asked about his leadership approach, Ryan emphasized flexibility.
“I’ve learned that if you want to get the best out of someone, you have to manage in a way that works for them—not just in a way that feels natural to you,” he explained. “People will have different experiences with me depending on how they best respond to leadership. That’s why I had all my direct reports take a personality test—it helps me understand how to bring out their best.”
Beyond the Office: Boating, Business Icons, and Fine Wine
Outside of work, Ryan has a love for boating and grew up spending time on the water—though he admits he still dreams of owning a 40-year-old, 40-foot trawler.
One of his most unique experiences? Carrying the Olympic torch in the 1996 Games. Coca-Cola sponsored a scholarship program that awarded students based on academic and athletic achievements, and Ryan earned the opportunity to be a torchbearer.
When it comes to business inspiration, Warren Buffett is at the top of his list of people he’d love to have dinner with. “He has such a simple, clear way of thinking about finance and business. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” Ryan noted.
If you ever need a wine recommendation, Ryan might just become your top choice. He’s currently working toward his Level One Wine Sommelier certification—an unexpected skill that might surprise you!
A Philosophy for Success
When it comes to his work ethic, Ryan credits one key piece of advice: Treat the business as if it were your own.
“When you take true ownership of a company’s success, it changes everything. It becomes a part of you—you set expectations for it, and it expects things from you in return. It’s almost like a relationship.”
We’re thrilled to welcome Ryan to the KASCO team and look forward to the leadership, vision, and energy he brings to the company. Stay tuned for more as he helps shape the future of KASCO!
