Transportation Transitions: Industry veterans take leadership roles at Southeastern Freight, NationaLease, Fuel Transport
Key takeaways
- Southeastern promotes Craig Parrish, showing the value of advancing experienced leaders to strengthen service center operations.
- NationaLease appoints Mike Blimling, emphasizing leadership in truck tech, maintenance, and fleet performance insights.
- Fuel Transport names Ray Blackwell, highlighting strategic leadership in scaling U.S. operations and optimizing fleet growth.
Southeastern Freight Lines promotes Craig Parrish to Albany service center manager
Southeastern Freight Lines recently promoted Craig Parrish to service center manager in Albany, Georgia. Over the course of his 15-year career with Southeastern, Parrish has held a variety of roles, including pickup and delivery driver, inbound supervisor, breakbulk supervisor, and assistant service center manager.
“Craig’s ability to connect with both associates and customers strengthens our culture wherever he serves and has been a key driver of his success in every role he’s held,” Mark Schwarzmueller, regional VP of operations at Southeastern Freight Lines, stated. “His commitment to delivering Quality Without Question service and his reputation for serving others will be a great addition to the wonderful team in Albany.”
NationaLease names Mike Blimling VP of truck technology and maintenance
NationaLease recently named Mike Blimling as the new vice president of truck technology and maintenance. Blimling will oversee member fleet operations, vehicle specing, and maintenance best practices, as well as coordinate the annual NationaLease Tech Challenge.
“I’m thrilled to be joining NationaLease,” Blimling said. “I can already tell that everyone here is passionate about what they do and understands how they fit into the overall picture. Joe has done a phenomenal job, and I look forward to continuing his legacy of outstanding service and commitment.”
Blimling brings over 20 years of industry experience, including roles at Kriete Leasing & Rental and Roadrunner Transportation Systems. Joe Puff will assist with Blimling’s transition before retiring in May. Read more…
Fuel Transport appoints Ray Blackwell as GM of U.S. sales and operations
Fuel Transport recently appointed Ray Blackwell as general manager of U.S. sales and operations. Blackwell will lead the growth of U.S. operations and help scale the company’s presence in a fast-growing market.
"Ray’s extensive experience and proven leadership in the transportation industry make him the ideal person to advance and execute Fuel’s strategy," Robert Piccioni, CEO and founder of Fuel Transport, stated. "He will be a key driver as we expand our U.S. presence while continuing to provide exceptional service to clients across North America."
Blackwell brings over 25 years of transportation industry experience, including leadership roles at C.H. Robinson. He will apply his expertise in strategic growth, operational excellence, and client management to Fuel Transport's U.S. operations. Read more…





