“I am looking forward to working with all of our employees to build upon the good foundation we have in place,” says Eisman.

Alon USA announced that, effective May 3, Paul Eisman was named CEO of the company in addition to his role as president, and Jeff Morris was named as vice chairman of the Board of Directors and will continue to serve as an executive of the company.

“I am very pleased this transition is taking place,” said Jeff Morris.  “It has been my personal priority to transition out of the role of CEO after 10 years.  I appreciate the Board of Directors allowing me to make this transition while also allowing me to continue in a leadership role in the company.  I have known Paul for many years and believe there is no one better to lead our company.  He is a skilled refiner and leader.”

In addition, Morris will be provided the opportunity to be the chief technology officer and the right to invest up to 20% in a Clean Energy Research Company should Alon choose to form such an enterprise.

“I have long been interested in the coming transitions in transportation fuels and am excited to be able to spend more thoughtful time in this area,” Morris said.

“I am excited and honored to be named the CEO of Alon USA, and thank the Board of Directors, David Wiessman, and Jeff Morris for the confidence that they’ve expressed by providing me this opportunity,” Eisman said.  “I am particularly pleased that Jeff will continue his involvement as vice-chairman of the Board. Since my arrival a year ago I have been continually impressed by the energy, abilities and achievements of our workforce.  We’ve accomplished a lot, but still have many opportunities in front of us.  I am looking forward to working with all of our employees to build upon the good foundation we have in place.”

Eisman joined Alon USA in March 2010, after serving as executive vice president of refining and marketing operations with Frontier Oil Corp., bringing more than 30 years of petroleum refining experience and expertise to Alon USA.