Logistics giant C.H. Robinson announces leadership transition

Transport and logistics giant C.H. Robinson has appointed Scott Anderson, chair of the board of directors, as the company’s interim chief executive officer, effective January 1, 2023.

Anderson commenced his role after Bob Biesterfeld stepped down as president and CEO and as a member of the board, effective December 31, 2022.

C.H. Robinson has since commenced its search for a new permanent CEO, retaining Russell Reynolds, an executive search firm, to assist in the process of identifying internal and external candidates.

With Anderson’s appointment as interim CEO, Jodee Kozlak has become independent chair of the C.H. Robinson Board.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I thank Bob for his many important contributions over the past three years as CEO and his 24 years with C.H. Robinson,” Anderson.

“Since joining Robinson in 1999, Bob has played an important role in positioning C.H. Robinson for long-term success, most recently leading the company through a challenging period, which included COVID-19 and dealing with supply chain disruptions. We wish him all the best,” he said.

The company has also made changes to the membership of the audit committee and governance committee to ensure these committees remain composed solely of independent directors.

For the role of chair of the governance committee, the transport firm appointment Kermit Crawford.

Speaking on his latest appointment, Anderson said he is honoured to take on the role and is committed to ensuring this will be a seamless transition for all C.H. Robinson stakeholders.

“Now is the right time for C.H. Robinson to accelerate our strategic initiatives and the Board is focused on identifying a CEO successor who can execute on the opportunities ahead for Robinson,” Anderson said

“I look forward to working closely with our talented employees to continue to improve our customer and carrier experience, and scale our digital processes to foster sustainable growth,” he said.

Bob Biesterfeld also expressed his thanks to the company, after his almost four years serving as its president and CEO.

“It has been a privilege to lead C.H. Robinson and this exceptional team,” Biesterfeld said.

“I am proud of all that we have achieved together, and it has been a pleasure working with so many talented members of the team throughout the organisation during my tenure as CEO,” he said.

“I am confident that C.H. Robinson’s industry leading people and culture will continue to ensure that the company is well-positioned for the future,” he concluded.

Source: C.H. Robinson press release.