William R. Klesse served as the CEO and Chairman of Valero Energy Corporation from 2005 until his retirement in 2014. Known for his strategic leadership, Klesse previously held positions as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. He took charge...

William R. Klesse served as the CEO and Chairman of Valero Energy Corporation from 2005 until his retirement in 2014. Known for his strategic leadership, Klesse previously held positions as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. He took charge during a transformative period for the company and shaped Valero into one of the largest independent refiners in the U.S., operating multiple refineries and ethanol plants. Under his guidance, executive pay was closely linked to the company’s performance. For instance, in 2007, Klesse earned a hefty $15.3 million, driven largely by outstanding performance metrics that led to twice the target bonus, reflecting his focus on achieving financial goals. Despite substantial bonuses, he preferred cash over stock grants, showcasing a clear alignment with immediate results rather than long-term stock performance. Interestingly, Klesse chose not to accept compensation as a board member, underlining his commitment to Valero's success. His tenure is marked by a focus on financial leadership and ensuring Valero’s operational efficiency in a competitive market.