CEO Judy McReynolds of ArcBest announces her retirement
In a significant move for logistics giant ArcBest, Judy R. McReynolds, the current CEO, has announced her retirement effective at the end of the year. McReynolds, who has been at the helm since 2010, has led ArcBest through a period of substantial growth and transformation, turning the company from a regional trucking firm into a multibillion-dollar logistics enterprise.
Under McReynolds' leadership, ArcBest's annual revenue has more than doubled to $4 billion, and the company's adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) have grown to over $300 million. McReynolds oversaw five strategic acquisitions and introduced innovative services such as Vaux, positioning ArcBest as a broader, technology-driven logistics provider. Her tenure is widely regarded as having reshaped the company’s strategic direction and operational capabilities.
In a planned, orderly transition, McReynolds will continue as the Chairman of the Board after her retirement as CEO, ensuring continuity during the leadership change. Seth Runser, the current president of ArcBest, will succeed McReynolds as CEO on January 1, 2023.
Runser has been with ArcBest for more than 18 years, starting as a management trainee and advancing through multiple leadership roles, most recently as President. His extensive tenure reflects deep operational and strategic expertise within the company. Runser is described as a “true expert on our business” by internal communications, with a track record of achieving strong results and demonstrating exceptional leadership.
The transition aims to minimize disruption and maintain momentum as the company navigates the evolving logistics and freight industry landscape. Runser's appointment is expected to bring stability and operational continuity to ArcBest, given his long history with the company and hands-on experience across its core business lines. His background suggests a focus on strategic execution, innovation, and leveraging ArcBest’s investments in technology and logistics solutions.
McReynolds' leadership has shaped ArcBest's culture and championed the customer-led approach that defines the company. The company has also announced new appointments, with Eddie Sorg appointed as the new chief commercial officer at the beginning of the year, and Mac Pinkerton, former C.H. Robinson brokerage head, joining ArcBest to lead operations at its asset-light logistics business on January 5.
As McReynolds steps down, she leaves behind a transformed, innovative logistics leader, ready to face the challenges of the future under new leadership. Seth Runser's appointment as CEO represents a planned internal succession, signaling confidence in his ability to build on ArcBest’s recent momentum and continue to drive growth and success.
Under Judy R. McReynolds' leadership, ArcBest's financial success has been significant, with the company's annual revenue more than doubling to $4 billion, and the adjusted EBITDA growing to over $300 million. Seth Runser, who has been a key player within the company for more than 18 years, will take over as CEO, bringing his strategic expertise to maintain the business's growth trajectory in the logistics and freight industry.
The strategic appointments of Eddie Sorg as the new chief commercial officer and Mac Pinkerton to lead operations at ArcBest's asset-light logistics business are testament to the company's commitment to innovation and customer-centric approach under both McReynolds' and Runser's leadership.
