James Welch is stepping down as CEO of YRC Worldwide in July. (Photo: YRC)

Operations

Welch to retire as CEO of YRC Worldwide in 2018

Dec. 17, 2017

YRC Freight president Darren Hawkins expected to take over.

James Welch will step down as CEO of less-than-truckload fleet YRC Worldwide Inc. on July 31, 2018.

The company, based in Overland Park, KS, announced YRC Freight president Darren Hawkins will assume the role of president and chief operating officer of YRC Worldwide on Jan. 1. Hawkins is expected to be named CEO once Welch officially retires.

Also on Jan. 1, Reddaway President TJ O'Connor will become president of YRC Freight, and Bob Stone, now vice president of operations at Reddaway, will become president of that unit.

"I believe this is the right time for YRCW and me to make the transition," Welch said. "I have gotten to know personally so many of the employees who work daily to serve our customers safely. There's more work to be done but I am proud of what has been accomplished."

Welch has led YRC since 2011, steering the company to profitability after serious financial turmoil. He has been with YRC for 29 years.

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"During his tenure, James assembled a strong team of leaders at YRCW, YRC Freight, Holland, Reddaway and New Penn and worked to change the trajectory of the company, paving the way for significant investment in technology and equipment," stated Jim Hoffman, chairman of YRC’s board of directors.

About the Author

Neil Abt

Neil Abt, editorial director at Fleet Owner, is a veteran journalist with over 20 years of reporting experience, including 15 years spent covering the trucking industry. A graduate of American University in Washington, D.C., he began his career covering sports for The Washington Post newspaper, followed by a position in the newsroom of America Online (AOL) and then both reporting and leadership roles at Transport Topics. Abt is based out of Portland, Oregon.