Crutchfield, a 21-year coal industry veteran, will assume more day-to-day oversight of the company including Alpha's sales, marketing and operations functions, allowing chairman and CEO Michael Quillen to devote more time to the company's strategic direction and growth plans.

Quillen said Crutchfield’s appointment as company president “reflects the tremendous confidence the board and I have in his ability to oversee the company, its extensive operations and important customer relationships. With Kevin taking this hands-on role, I will be able to focus more of my energies on the strategic direction our company will take over the medium and long term."

Crutchfield has spent 11 years in various technical, operating and executive management positions with Alpha and its predecessor and acquired companies.

He is a former chairman of the Kentucky Coal Association and is a member of the board of directors of the National Mining Association and the Virginia Coal Association and vice-chairman of the West Virginia Coal Association.