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 chief executive and board director is effective Sunday, ahead of the carrier’s Q1 earnings announcement on May 8, per the release.
The carrier spent just over two months searching for someone to replace Tom Schmitt who departed the company in February as the company worked through a tumultuous acquisition process of Omni Logistics.
Forward Air noted Stewart is a seasoned executive with nearly three decades of logistics and transportation experience. As president and managing director North America for CEVA Logistics, Stewart led growth efforts and oversaw the company’s extensive operations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean with more than 15,000 employees.
“The Board and our advisors conducted a thorough search and are confident Shawn is the right leader to drive 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 successfully delivering growth and operational excellence.”
Stewart served in the Navy between 1992 and 1998, leaving with the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, according to his LinkedIn. He received the Navy Achievement Medal for his exemplary service aboard the USS Inchon and USS Theodore Roosevelt.
Stewart said he was impressed by the resilience Forward Air demonstrated through its transition and challenging market conditions.
“Together, Forward and Omni have created an industry leader with a clear dedication to delivering world-class service to customers — a quality I share,” Stewart said.
Michael Hance, who served as interim CEO since February, will continue as chief legal officer and secretary.
