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Forward Air has hired Shawn Stewart, a longtime CEVA Logistics executive and Navy veteran, as its next CEO, the company announced Tuesday.
Stewart’s appointment as CEO and board director is effective Sunday ahead of the carrier’s first-quarter earnings announcement on May 8, according to the release.
The carrier spent a little more than two months searching for someone to replace Tom Schmitt, who left the company in February as the company worked through a tumultuous acquisition of Omni Logistics.
Forward Air noted that Stewart is an experienced executive with nearly three decades of experience in logistics and transportation. As president and CEO of CEVA Logistics North America, Stewart led growth efforts and oversaw the company’s extensive operations in the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean with more than 15,000 employees.
“Our board and advisors conducted a thorough investigation and are confident that Shawn is the right leader to lead Forward’s future success,” George Mayes, independent chairman, said in a statement. “He knows this industry inside and out and has demonstrated a track record of successful growth and operational excellence.”
Stewart served in the Navy between 1992 and 1998, retiring with the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, according to LinkedIn. He received the Navy Achievement Medal for his exemplary service aboard the aircraft carriers USS Inchon and USS Theodore Roosevelt.
Stewart said he was impressed by the resilience Forward Air has shown through its transition and difficult market conditions.
“Together, Forward and Omni have created an industry leader with a clear commitment to providing world-class customer service – a quality I share,” said Stewart.
Michael Hance, who has served as interim CEO since February, will continue as chief legal officer and secretary.