Our Team
John R. Fernando
Chief Executive Officer/Founder
John R. Fernando is an accomplished and visionary oil and gas executive with over 20 years of experience in the energy sector. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Grasslands Acquisitions LLC and Firethorn Holdings LLC, where he has been instrumental in driving significant company growth, leading strategic acquisitions, and raising substantial capital to fuel expansion. Under his leadership, both organizations have achieved remarkable milestones, including the successful closure of more than 2,000 transactions and the raising of over $1 billion in capital. Mr. Fernando’s career is distinguished by a strong commitment to operational excellence and a high standard of integrity. He has consistently showcased his ability to tackle complex challenges while seizing new opportunities.
Beyond his work in the energy sector, Mr. Fernando is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders. He actively supports and guides young professionals within the energy industry, helping them develop the skills and insights necessary to succeed in an evolving sector. Mr. Fernando is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys coaching basketball, golf, and skiing. He is also committed to philanthropic initiatives, particularly those that aim to improve access to resources and opportunities for underserved communities.
SuLynn Latham
Chief Operating Officer
Mrs. SuLynn Latham serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Firethorn Holdings, LLC and Grasslands Acquisitions, LLC, where she oversees day-to-day operations and drives strategic execution across both organizations. She leads and aligns cross-functional teams—including landmen and operational staff—to ensure efficiency, productivity, and long-term growth. With over 15 years of experience in business operations and leadership, SuLynn is recognized for her ability to streamline processes, manage complex systems, and deliver measurable outcomes
across diverse industries. Outside the office, SuLynn enjoys golfing, fishing, and spending quality time with her family and friends at the lake.
Brad Gaddy
Director of Acquisitions
Mr. Gaddy is the Acquisition Manager at Firethorn Holdings where he led the sourcing, evaluation, and execution of acquisition opportunities that align with the company’s strategic growth objectives. With deep experience in deal structuring, due diligence, and market analysis, Mr. Gaddy plays a key role in expanding the company’s portfolio and driving long-term value
through targeted acquisitions.
Erin Easterling
Director of Title Operations
Ms. Easterling is the Title Operations Manager at Firethorn Holdings, where she manages all aspects of evaluating and verifying ownership records and rights. With over 10 years of
experience in land and mineral title research and legal documentation, she ensures the accuracy, clarity, and integrity of title reports that support real estate transactions, acquisitions, and
development projects. Erin plays a vital role with her meticulous attention to detail, organization and a solutions-focused approach that enhances operational efficiency, mitigates risk, and assists in efficient transactions that support the company’s growth and mission.
Kat Killough
Executive Assistant
Kat Killough serves as Executive Assistant at Firethorn Holdings LLC, where she provides high-level administrative and operational support to the executive leadership team. With a strong background in executive coordination, office management, and organizational efficiency, Kat plays a key role in streamlining communication, managing complex schedules, and ensuring that daily operations run smoothly.
“As someone unfamiliar with mineral rights, I appreciated how Firethorn broke everything down clearly. What really stood out was their Christ-centered approach—doing business the right way, with integrity and purpose. We felt genuinely cared for.”
-Angela D., Stephens County, OK
“Firethorn Holdings made selling our minerals fast and simple. No runaround, no gimmicks—just a fair offer and a smooth transaction. I’d absolutely work with them again.”
- James L., Lea County, NM
Our Vision
Our Vision is to be Kingdom focused and to use this focus to reach the lost and share Christ.