EcoEngineers Appoints New CEO in Des Moines

Brad Pleima steps into the CEO role as co-founder Shashi Menon announces his retirement from the firm.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of clean, rectilinear industrial structures, representing the integration of renewable fuel auditing services. — EcoEngineers has named Brad Pleima as its new CEO as co-founder Shashi Menon retires following the firm's acquisition by LRQA. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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EcoEngineers, a Des Moines-based firm specializing in clean fuel auditing, has named Brad Pleima as its new CEO. The leadership change comes alongside the retirement of company co-founder Shashi Menon.

Why it matters

The appointment follows the recent acquisition of EcoEngineers by the global risk management group LRQA. As CEO, Pleima will spearhead the integration of the firm into LRQA Climate and focus on international growth for clean fuel auditing services.

EcoEngineers currently supports project developments valued at $5 billion and has advised over 300 clean energy facilities. The firm also maintains an advisory network consisting of 100 sustainability experts.

The players

Brad Pleima

He is the newly appointed CEO of EcoEngineers who previously served as the company president starting in 2021.

Shashi Menon

He is the co-founder of EcoEngineers who is retiring from the organization.

EcoEngineers

This Des Moines-based firm provides auditing services for clean fuel standards and international carbon frameworks.

LRQA

This global risk management group acquired EcoEngineers in early 2025.

The details

Brad Pleima, who has been with the firm since 2017 and served as president since 2021, takes over the top position during a period of transition. The company remains headquartered in Des Moines and retains its accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board.

2009: EcoEngineers was founded.
2017: Brad Pleima joined the company.
2021: Brad Pleima became president of the company.
March 2025: LRQA acquired EcoEngineers.
October 2026: Brad Pleima was named CEO.

Market Landscape

The leadership transition is a direct result of the acquisition of EcoEngineers by LRQA, reflecting broader consolidation trends in the environmental auditing sector. This move positions the firm to expand its service capabilities under the international LRQA Climate banner.

For current clients and partners of EcoEngineers, the transition to LRQA oversight may lead to broader international auditing support. Existing service agreements and auditing processes for clean fuel standards are expected to continue under the new management team.

The takeaway

The appointment of Brad Pleima signals a strategic pivot toward global expansion for the Des Moines-based auditing firm. Stakeholders should anticipate further integration into international carbon framework services following the recent LRQA acquisition.