USA Truck’s CEO John Simone is taking a leave of absence to address issues relating to a serious medical condition, the company announced. The board of directors has appointed director Thomas Glaser as interim chief operating officer. Glaser will report directly to the board of directors, according to the company.Glaser served as USA Truck’s interim chief operating officer from January 2013 to June 2013. He has more than 30 years of management experience in the trucking industry, including serving as president of two truckload carriers, Celadon Trucking Services and Arnold Transportation Services.“The board understands that it is in John’s best interests at this time to focus on his health and recover from his illness,” board chairman Robert Peiser said. “The company is fortunate to have someone of Tom’s talent and experience available to provide executive support, as well as a strong management team comprised of both executives recruited by John and others fostered from the team already present when he joined USA Truck. Together, we believe this team will maintain the momentum of the company’s turnaround while at the same time helping John regain full strength as soon as possible.”“John and his team have placed USA Truck firmly on the right path to executing the Company’s strategic plan and unlocking its earnings potential,” Glaser said. “Everyone at USA Truck is intent on continuing the many improvements that have been made over the past two years. I look forward to assisting them in those efforts and wish John a speedy recovery.”