Stephen Hightower

About Stephen Hightower

Stephen L. Hightower II is a visionary leader in the energy industry, serving as (COO) of Hightowers Petroleum Company, one of North America’s largest independently owned wholesale fuel distribution businesses. Under his leadership, the company has achieved 100% growth in sales, supplying over 250 million gallons of fuel annually across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.As COO, he drives strategic direction, operational excellence, and business alignment, ensuring sustained growth and innovation while keeping the CEO, President, and Board of Directors informed on progress and market positioning.Passionate about energy transformation and sustainability, Stephen is committed to shaping the industry\'s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) programs and leading the transition toward cleaner fuel solutions, including renewable diesel and hydrogen. He brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, grassroots organizing, and government relations, leveraging his expertise to build high-performing teams and drive impactful change.Beyond his corporate leadership, Stephen is deeply committed to community impact and mentorship. As Chair of the Robert “Sonny” Hill Community Center Revitalization Project, he is leading efforts to transform a historic facility into a state-of-the-art hub for youth and families in his hometown of Middletown, Ohio. He also serves as Chair of the Atrium Medical Center HEAL program, providing critical support to families coping with child loss. His dedication to youth development is reflected in his mentorship and sponsorship of area teens in the YMCA Youth in Government program at the Ohio Statehouse, empowering the next generation of leaders.Stephen’s influence extends across multiple boards and industry organizations, serving as a Board Member of SIGMA (Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America), The Fuel Foundation Board of Governors, The Cincinnati USA Chamber of Commerce, and the Atrium Medical Center Foundation. He is also an active member of YPO (Young Presidents\' Organization) and the Ohio Retail Merchants Association.Recognized for his business acumen and commitment to leadership, Stephen has been honored with numerous awards, including Cincinnati Business Courier\'s 40 Under 40, COO of the Year (C-Suites Awards), YPO’s Spark Award, and Venue Magazine’s Next Generation of Community Leaders.Driven by a vision for innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, Stephen L. Hightower II is shaping the future of the energy industry while making a lasting impact on businesses and communities alike.

Experience

1. Chief Operating Officer

   Hightowers Petroleum Co

   May 2009 — Present

Education

• The Ohio State University

  Political Science and Government

Skills

• Public Relations
• Media Relations
• Organizational Development
• Team Leadership
• Coalitions
• Leadership
• Public Speaking
• Energy
• Team Building
• Event Planning
• Policy
• Strategic Planning
• Fundraising
• Political Campaigns
• Proposal Writing
• Grassroots Organizing
• Leadership Development
• Grassroots
• Government
• Nonprofits
• Strategic Communications