On Monday Alpha said Vining was leaving on January 31 to accept a “CEO position with a Cline Group affiliate that will be focused on the acquisition and operation of coal mines outside the United States”

“Upon Vining's departure, executive vice president and chief commercial officer Brian Sullivan, and newly appointed executive vice president, mining operations Keith Hainer, will take on expanded responsibilities within the company," Alpha said.

“Both Sullivan and Hainer will report directly to Alpha's chairman and CEO Kevin Crutchfield.”

Crutchfield still had kind words for head-hunted Vining.

"Paul has been an asset and leader for a number of coal companies throughout his career and the same was true at Alpha,” he said.

“We are grateful for Paul's three-and-a-half years of service and wish him success in his new international venture.”

Meanwhile, Alpha’s veteran CFO Wood will retire on February 28 with Alpha EVP and chief strategy officer Philip Cavatoni tasked with taking over Wood’s CFO role.

Crutchfield praised Wood: "During his time at Alpha and throughout his tremendous 35-year career in the coal sector, Frank has established himself as one of the most respected financial professionals in the business.”

“More than that, he is an institution within this industry. We are sad to see him go, but wish him well on a retirement well earned."