4 Minutes With…John Kirkwood, Partner, Kreig Devault

August 26, 2014 |

kirkwoodTell us about your company and it’s role in the Advanced Bioeconomy.

Krieg Devault became involved in the advanced bioeconomy in the early 2000s when the corn-to-ethanol revolution swept accross the USA. Since then, we have worked on many of the marquee projects in the bio industry including wind, solar, advanced biofuels and renewable chemicals.

Tell us about your role and what you are focused on in the next 12 months.

We are currently focussed on closing a number of advanced biofuels financings which are supported by both USDA and DOE loan guarantees. Additionally, in conjunction with our client Stern Brothers, we are continually working on developing new financial products to better serve the various industries within the bioeconomy we serve. We have learned over the years that diversity in our client base within the bioeconomy is important to our continued success, as numerous external factors (governmental, in particular) determine the ability to successfully raise both equity and debt for our clients.

Our team of attorneys in the Alternative Energy Group has a national practice and reputation. We cover every aspect of “project finance,” including project contracts, environmental diligence, intellectual property, tax, tax equity, securities law, and all aspects of secured lending. Additionally, we offer our clients a national New Markets Tax Credit practice.

What do you feel are the most important milestones the industry must achieve in the next 5 years?

The commercialization of technology and the reduction or management of feedstock, technology of off-take risks are all things which the industry must address. This, together with a constant federal energy policy, will move the bioeconomy from a one in which skepticism is our nemesis to one which is viewed as an established and mature industry.

If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about the Advanced Bioeconomy, what would you change? 

A lack of consistent federal energy policy is by and far the biggest issue facing the bioeconomy.

Of all the reasons that influenced you to join the Advanced Bioeconomy industry, what single reason stands out for you as still being compelling and important to you?

All of the great minds who continue to inovate and make things once thougth to be impossible a reality.

You’ll be speaking at the next ABLCNext conference in San Francisco this November. What’s special about that week for you?

Clearly, the networking that goes on at ABLC is the reason I am there. It is much like coming back to college after a long summer and getting to see all of your friends and acquaintances– renewing old friendships and making new ones.

What was your undergraduate major in college, and where did you attend? Why did you choose that school and that pathway? 

B.S. Finance from Indiana University. The I.U. Kelly School of Business has had a national reputation among business schools across the USA for many years.

What’s the biggest lesson you ever learned during a period of adversity?

Perserverence with and loyalty to a client, no matter how difficult things may be, are character traits which I have learned and believe will serve your well throughout life. Also, one should always look at adversity as a great opportunity for change.

What hobbies do you pursue, away from your work in the industry? 

Golf–it is a major stress reliever. There is nothing better than sharing 3 to 4 hours with good friends on the golf course. You are able to talk about anyting and everything–families and their professional careers, etc.

What’s your favorite city or place to visit, for a holiday?

Chicago–staying at the Park Hyatt on Michigan Avenue with my lovely wife, relaxing and enjoying good food and drink.

Category: Million Minds

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