RMI Announces Key Leadership Changes to Continue Scaling Carbon-Free Solutions in Transport and Climate Technology

Clay Stranger and Brant Richards take on new leadership roles of Carbon-Free Transportation and Third Derivative Programs.

Boulder, CO – April 27, 2022

RMI is pleased to announce key leadership changes to its Carbon-Free Transportation and Third Derivative (D3) programs. Clay Stranger takes over the Carbon-Free Transportation team as its managing director, and Brant Richards takes on the role of managing director of Third Derivative, a global climate technology accelerator and innovation engine.

To reach international climate targets, greenhouse gas emissions must be halved by 2030. Transforming transportation — the largest source of emissions in the United States and one of the fastest-growing sources globally — and accelerating tech-based climate solutions around the world are crucial for achieving this aim.

Clay Stranger takes over the position of managing director of Carbon-Free Transportation from Britta Gross, who led the team for three transformative years. Stranger has been an integral leader at RMI for over ten years, most recently coleading the India Program, which he will continue to do alongside Akshima Ghate. Stranger has worked on energy strategy in more than 15 countries and brings a rigorous approach to research and engagement to help solve complex challenges in the energy sector.

“I am excited to bring my experience working in India, China and beyond to a new chapter at RMI, leading a global program to accelerate decarbonization of one of the most polluting sectors in the world, said Stranger of his new role.

“Carbon-Free Transportation and the India Program are closely connected, and Clay’s deep experience with the India Program will be a critical asset in this role. I am looking forward to having his experience, breadth of knowledge, and perspective leading the Carbon-Free Transportation team,” said Jon Creyts, RMI’s chief program and strategy officer.

Brant Richards is being promoted to the role of managing director of D3. He joined D3 in early 2021 as its first chief operating officer, leading P&L and operations initiatives and developing the heart of D3’s accelerator and market-making programs. He brings over two decades of experience in climate technology commercialization.

“I’m humbled and energized to lead this international team of incredible climate warriors to D3’s next stage of impactful and equitable growth,” Richards said of his new role.

“Brant is committed to the belief that solving the world’s urgent climate problems requires an approach that leverages and engages diverse voices. His 24 years of experience in renewable energy and sustainability, passion for innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit will be a huge asset to Third Derivative,” said Creyts.

Richards will take on the role of managing director immediately, and Stranger will transition into his new role in May, leading these key RMI programs to new levels of growth and success in achieving a zero-carbon future for all.

For media inquiries please contact:

Daina Ruduša, Media Relations Manager, E: media@rmi.org

About RMI

RMI is an independent nonprofit founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future and secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. We work in the world’s most critical geographies and engage businesses, policymakers, communities, and NGOs to identify and scale energy system interventions that will cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 50 percent by 2030. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; and Beijing. More information on RMI can be found at rmi.org or follow us on Twitter @RockyMtnInst.