Transportation Transitions: New executives take the helm at Calstart, Southeastern Freight, Ford, and ATD to drive clean transportation and fleet strategy
Key takeaways
- Michael Berube named Calstart CEO, brings expertise in electrification and policy to advance clean transportation.
- Leadership shifts at Southeastern Freight, ATD, and Ford highlight industry focus on operational efficiency and fleet strategy.
- Executive changes signal opportunities for fleets to leverage partnerships and technology in sustainable transportation planning.
Southeastern Freight Lines promotes Matt Edwards to service center manager in Rocky Mount, North Carolina
Southeastern Freight Lines, a provider of regional less-than-truckload transportation services, recently announced that Matt Edwards has been promoted to the position of service center manager in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
“Since joining the Southeastern team 12 years ago, Matt has consistently leveraged our core values to foster a positive culture, build strong relationships with associates and customers, and deliver exceptional results,” Matt Bowen, regional VP of operations for Southeastern Freight Lines, said.
Edwards most recently served as assistant service center manager in Augusta, South Carolina. He and his family are relocating to Rocky Mount to continue serving in his new role.
Ford announces leadership changes to strengthen global operations and product development
Ford Motor Company recently announced a series of global leadership changes to support its Ford+ transformation and strengthen operations worldwide. Jim Baumbick will become president of Ford Europe; Sam Basile will take over as VP of advanced product development, cycle planning, and programs; and Bryce Currie will expand his role as chief manufacturing officer.
"These global leadership appointments underscore our relentless commitment to building a truly world-class team across Ford, united by a singular focus: delivering product excellence and quality for our customers globally,” Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO, said.
Andrew Frick will take on additional responsibilities for the Lincoln Motor Company, unifying the company’s global retail business units under one leader. Long-time leaders Chuck Gray and Darren Palmer will retire, with Charles Poon succeeding Gray as VP of vehicle hardware engineering, effective November 1. Learn more…
American Tire Distributors strengthens leadership with new sales and strategy appointments
American Tire Distributors (ATD) recently announced two key leadership appointments to strengthen its strategic direction and accelerate growth. Todd Sanders has been promoted to chief sales officer, leading sales, customer service operations, and Tire Pros franchise development. Keith Calcagno has been named chief strategy officer of proprietary brands, focusing on long-term strategy for ATD’s private label brands.
“These appointments reflect our commitment to building a high-performing leadership team that is focused on delivering value to our customers and partners,” Ira B. Silver, president and CEO of ATD, said.
Sanders brings more than 25 years of automotive aftermarket experience, including senior roles at Advance Auto Parts and CarQuest Auto Parts. Calcagno has over two decades of experience at ATD, with a background in corporate and supply chain finance and strategic planning.
Calstart names Michael Berube as new CEO to lead clean transportation initiatives
The board of directors at Calstart has appointed Michael Berube as its new CEO, effective November 13, succeeding John Boesel, who is retiring after 30 years. Berube has experience in the public and private transportation sectors, including senior roles at Fiat Chrysler, DaimlerChrysler, and the U.S. Department of Energy.
“It is a privilege to join Calstart at such a profoundly pivotal moment in our industry,” Berube said. “Transportation is vital to the economy and to consumers’ everyday lives. It is at an inflection point and needs bold leadership to help secure the promise of lower-cost and low-emissions options that meet the needs of all Americans. Together with our members and partners, I will continue the work of building the clean transportation industry and expanding its vital impact.”
Calstart’s Board Chair Cynthia Williams said Berube’s experience in electrification and policy will guide the organization during a critical time for clean transportation. Boesel added that Berube has the right experience to leverage Calstart’s role as a trusted broker between industry and government. Berube will focus on advancing affordable and clean transportation through strategic partnerships. Learn more…