Oil Patch Bits: Crowley’s Demeroutis and Leming take on new roles

Crowley Maritime Corp. said Oct. 23 that Steve Demeroutis has been named vice president, marine operations, for the company’s petroleum and chemical transportation group. Rudy Leming will assume Demeroutis’ former position of vice president, labor relations. In their new positions, both employees will remain domiciled in Jacksonville, Fla. Demeroutis will report to Crowley’s Rob Grune, senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services, while Leming now reports to Bill Pennella, vice chairman and executive vice president.

Demeroutis joined Crowley in 2007 as director, labor relations, and was later promoted to vice president. Prior to joining Crowley, he served as vice president, United Inland Group of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots and as a trustee for several different employee health and benefits plans. He received his Master’s license in 1986 and sailed as Master and First Class Pilot with the Washington State ferries.

Leming began his career with Crowley in 1984 when the company purchased Delta Lines. He was transferred to port operations at Petty’s Island and worked his way up from maintenance manager to terminal manager to director of port operations. In 2000, Leming was promoted to vice president of operations and in 2006 became vice president, Caribbean Island services. In 2010, he was again advanced, this time to vice president of terminal operations. He is a past recipient of the Thomas Crowley Trophy, Crowley’s highest honor.