Keith Southard is a seasoned executive, strategic board member, and serial entrepreneur who brings more than three decades of experience transforming underperforming companies into thriving market leaders. A dynamic figure in the energy sector and related industries, Keith is best known for his ability to launch, grow, and exit successful ventures while guiding both private enterprises and boards through complex transitions, global expansions, and high-stakes decision-making.

At the core of Keith’s career is a rare blend of operational savvy and governance expertise. As co-founder and CEO of 700 Valve Supply, LLC, Keith led the business from startup to a $57 million private equity-backed sale in just five years, then remained on as CEO and board member to steer a 20% EBITDA increase post-acquisition. Under his leadership, the company navigated the COVID-19 pandemic without government aid—cutting overhead, optimizing cash flow, and emerging stronger than competitors. His tenure on the company’s board continues today, where he lends his insight on capital investments, acquisitions, and strategic growth initiatives.

Keith’s boardroom contributions extend beyond corporate operations. As Chair of the Board of Governors for Magnolia Creek Golf Club, a 550-member ClubCorp-owned property, Keith oversaw a dramatic turnaround in member satisfaction—raising approval ratings from 74% to 88% in just over a year. His clear vision and member-first philosophy have poised the club to reach an ambitious 98% satisfaction benchmark by year’s end.

An entrepreneur at heart, Keith currently leads South Sales, LLC, a firm he founded in 2023 to represent U.S. manufacturers in the energy market. With a keen eye for industry needs and a deep network, he grew the business from $0 to $8 million in projected annual sales within two months. The firm is now on track to generate $25 million in sales by 2025—evidence of Keith’s enduring strength in sales, operations, and client trust-building.

In addition to energy, Keith has made a successful pivot into healthcare entrepreneurship as a franchise owner of QC Kinetix in Corpus Christi. Under his stewardship, the regenerative medicine clinic reached $1.2 million in revenue in its first year, ranking among the top 10 out of 184 franchises nationwide.

Keith’s earlier leadership roles reflect a consistent pattern of exponential growth and international market development. At OMB Valves, he convinced the Italian parent company to invest in expanded U.S. distribution, resulting in a leap from $5 million to $40 million in annual revenue in just three years. At Newmans (later acquired by Cameron), he drove a fourfold revenue increase—from $18 million to $72 million—positioning the company for a high-return acquisition. At Lockwood International, Keith played a central role in globalizing the business, helping it grow from $18 million in domestic sales to $180 million globally.

Keith holds a BBA in Business Management from the University of Houston and continues to lead with a strategic, forward-looking lens sharpened by decades of global business experience. Whether serving in the boardroom or on the front lines of entrepreneurial ventures, he brings unparalleled resilience, clarity, and results-driven leadership to every endeavor.

From scaling startups to advising high-growth enterprises and nonprofit institutions, Keith Southard’s career is a testament to the impact of bold vision, sound governance, and relentless execution. He remains a trusted voice of reason in executive planning circles, respected for cutting through the noise and forging pathways to sustainable success.

Character
Keith Southard demonstrates unwavering integrity, resilience, and commitment across every stage of his career, leading businesses through high-pressure situations with calm confidence and a results-driven mindset. His actions consistently reflect a deep sense of responsibility to his teams, clients, and board peers, earning trust through transparency and an unwavering dedication to performance.

Knowledge
With decades of experience across energy, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, Keith brings deep expertise in operational leadership, financial stewardship, and global expansion. His success in launching, scaling, and exiting businesses showcases a profound understanding of market dynamics, governance, and strategic execution.

Strategic
Keith excels at identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities, from spearheading multi-million dollar acquisitions to launching successful ventures in untapped markets. His ability to craft long-term strategic plans, adapt to crisis conditions, and optimize complex business models makes him a valued advisor and visionary leader.

Communication
Keith communicates with clarity, conviction, and purpose, whether rallying teams around bold growth goals or guiding board-level discussions on complex transactions. His style is direct yet thoughtful, allowing him to cut through ambiguity, build consensus, and drive informed decision-making across stakeholders.