J.B. Hunt announces executive leadership changes
J.B. Hunt Transport Services recently announced the following changes to its executive leadership team:
- Nick Hobbs, continuing his duties as chief operating officer, has been named president of highway and final mile services
- Executive Vice President Brad Hicks has been named president of dedicated contract services
- David Keefauver has been named executive vice president of people
“We are in a position to deliver exceptional value for our customers and shareholders throughout our full suite of services, and these changes align the strengths and experience of our executives to lead and grow these services into the future,” said Shelley Simpson, J.B. Hunt president and CEO. “As we navigate current market dynamics and prepare for a return to more normal seasonal demand patterns, we anticipate a large addressable opportunity to capture additional market share and see greater returns on our strategic investments.”
As president of highway services, Hobbs will oversee the company’s integrated capacity solutions and truckload business units. His steady and disciplined approach led DCS and FMS to premier status as providers for private fleet replacement and big and bulky services. Hobbs recently celebrated 40 years with the company.
Hicks will assume the role of president of dedicated contract services, having spent more than 25 years working across the company’s DCS segment, and will focus on expanding the business unit’s future market size opportunity. In his role as EVP of people, he also led the company’s efforts to support employees through enhancements to our wellness and benefits, career growth, and an inclusive culture. Hicks has 28 years of experience with the company.
Previously EVP of DCS, Keefauver has consistently leveraged his operations experience, people leadership skills, and focus on operational excellence to drive new growth. His leadership across DCS served customers with specialized equipment, qualified drivers, and unmatched market density. Beginning his career with the company as a manager trainee, Keefauver has over 29 years of experience at J.B. Hunt.
The new positions will be effective Dec. 1. All three executives will report to president and CEO Shelley Simpson.
See also: J.B. Hunt leaders see more signs of typical seasonality
Merchants Fleet welcomes Jonathan Parker to board of directors
Merchants Fleet recently appointed Jonathan Parker to its board of directors.
With over 20 years of experience, Parker has held roles including CCO at GE Capital and EVP/CCO at Element Fleet Management, where his expertise in financial management and operational leadership helped drive $5 billion in annual lease funding and contributed to significant client growth.
“Jonathan’s exceptional financial acumen and visionary outlook will be invaluable as we continue to build a strong and transformative future for our clients,” said Brad Burgess, interim co-CEO of Merchants. “We are thrilled to welcome him to our board of directors, and we look forward to working together to shape the future of fleet.”
“Merchants has distinguished itself as a true visionary in fleet management, setting new standards for innovation and redefining excellence in client service,” Parker said. “I am excited to contribute to this momentum and redefine what’s possible in the industry.”
