FedEx Express president and CEO announces retirement, Richard W. Smith next in line

After nearly 40 years at FedEx Express, president and CEO Donald F. Colleran said he will be retiring from the US shipping giant by the end of the year.

Colleran will be succeeded by Richard W. Smith, regional president of the Americas and executive vice president of global support, as president and CEO of FedEx Express.

Colleran joined from Flying Tigers in its acquisition by FedEx in 1989 and has since served several key leadership roles at FedEx.

Beginning in 1992, he has spent a 12-year global career in international sales and operations management that took him from Tokyo to HongKong to Toronto, where he served as president of FedEx Express Canada.

He is also regarded as one of the pioneers of FedEx’s international business, since Colleran helped lay a foundation for the significant growth in that sector of the FedEx portfolio.

“From launching new capabilities for our customers to leading our global FedEx Express team during some of the most challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Don has been instrumental in creating and executing our remarkable global growth strategy,” said Raj Subramaniam, president and COO, FedEx Corp.

Colleran also served as senior VP of international sales before being appointed executive VP and chief sales officer for FedEx Corp. in 2017.

In 2019, he assumed the role of president and CEO of FedEx Express.

“Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our customers and our team members,” Subramaniam said.

“I have a deep respect for Don and the profound difference he has made during his tenure at FedEx, especially as a steadfast champion of our world-renowned culture,” he said.

“In addition to his impressive business results over several decades, Don leaves a legacy of mentorship and building an incredible team of leaders who are poised to take the Express business to the next level. We wish him well in his retirement after his long and distinguished career.”

Colleran will be succeeded by Smith, who will become president and CEO-elect of FedEx Express on April 1 and will assume full duties on September 1.

Colleran will remain at FedEx Express as the CEO Executive Advisor through the end of December to help ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.

Smith joined FedEx in 2005. He previously served as the president and CEO of FedEx Logistics, and in a series of leadership positions in life sciences, healthcare, and customer solutions, including serving as vice president of global trade services and managing director of life sciences and specialty services.

On Smith’s appointment, Subramaniam said Smith has a deep understanding of the business and has played an instrumental part in their electric vehicle strategy and vaccine distribution efforts.

“With the outstanding executive management team we have in place to execute our strategy, including leaders like Richard, I am confident in the future of FedEx,” he concluded.

Source: FedEx