Meet USP&E’s Energy Industry Leaders
At USP&E, our energy industry leaders drive innovation in power generation, infrastructure, and sustainable solutions worldwide. See our global impact in power generation.
William Gruver
Group Founder and Chairman
William Gruver leads USP&E’s initiatives in sustainable power solutions and global power leadership. Will oversees all global operations and strategic direction at USP&E. By focusing on renewable and sustainable energy, he ensures that the company delivers impactful, large-scale energy projects that significantly enhance the communities it serves.
Will founded USP&E Global in 2002 and has over two decades of experience in the energy sector, driving the company’s growth from a small operation to a global leader in power generation and sustainability solutions.
Born in the USA, Will studied at Northwestern University and completed executive education at Harvard Business School. He currently resides in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Herman Schoeman
CEO USP&E Holdings
Herman is the CEO of USP&E Holdings, based in Johannesburg, South Africa. He manages our head office team, overseeing all aspects of the business, and is responsible for our global activities with regional emphasis on Africa and Asia. He graduated in business from Stellenbosch University with further studies in International Relations and Marketing.
He has over 20 years of experience in business management, business development, project management and commercial-scale construction in real estate and energy. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Herman has lived in Johannesburg since 2003.
John Gruver
CFO, Managing Director North America
Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
John is the Group CFO and is responsible for our business development activities in North America. He graduated in Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame and has over 25 years of experience in corporate finance, procurement, project management, construction, and energy.
Born in the United States, John has worked internationally all his working life and has lived in Knoxville since 2018.
Eric Tolsma
Managing Director and Chief Strategy Officer for the
Middle East Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Eric is responsible for our activities in the Middle East, Europe and North Africa. He graduated in Mechanical Engineering and Business Administration and has over 30 years experience in developing medium and large power projects in Africa and the Middle East.
Born in The Netherlands, Eric has worked internationally all his working life and and has lived in Dubai since 2013.
Marius Von Wielligh
Managing Director of USP&ENG and Global Head of Engineering
Marius is responsible for all engineering activities and decisions supporting all our businesses globally. Marius is a registered Professional Engineer with an MBA and an honours electrical engineering degree in electrical transmission systems. He is also a senior member of SAIMC and SAIEEE.
He has over 25 years of experience in the mining and energy sectors in Africa, holding several senior management positions. Born in Johannesburg, he has worked at mines in South Africa and regionally and has lived in Johannesburg since 2010.
John Webb
Chief Compliance Officer, Managing Director of West Africa
and CEO of Made@scale
John is a strategic leader with over 12 years of expertise in transforming global business operations and accelerating revenue growth across four continents. He demonstrates a proven record in leading multimillion-dollar projects within the energy, oil & gas, and technology sectors, including power plant refurbishments and mergers as well as acquisitions. Adept at strategic planning, budgeting, and cash flow forecasting, focusing on long-term success through process improvement, organisational restructuring, and cost-saving initiatives.
Skilled in navigating high-growth challenges, optimising processes, and implementing solutions to enhance profitability and operational efficiency. Committed to regulatory compliance, elevating customer satisfaction, and fostering a culture of excellence within high-performing teams.
Born in Washington DC, he now resides in South Africa.
Matthew Fredericks
Managing Director and Co-Founder of USP&SE
Matthew Fredericks, MD and Co-Founder of USP&SE (Sustainable Energy), has over two decades of experience in the energy and mining sectors. Born in Johannesburg, Matt developed a passion for leadership and innovation early on. Specialising in energy solutions for mining, he quickly became a renowned energy sales expert known for his strategic thinking and leadership.
Matt plays a vital role in driving USP&SE’s growth into hybrid EPC projects, focusing on sustainable energy solutions. His leadership has helped the company expand its footprint and reduce carbon emissions while improving efficiency.
Matt is passionate about community development and mentoring young talent outside of work. A former professional rugby player and competitive athlete, he believes in the importance of balancing personal well-being with professional success.