J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. has appointed Shelley Simpson as CEO and president, effective July 1, 2024, along with her nomination to the company’s board of directors. Simpson has served as president since Aug. 1, 2022.
Kirk Thompson, current executive chair of the board, along with Wayne Garrison, will both retire from the board and will take advisory roles as honorary founding directors.
John N. Roberts, III, outgoing CEO, will assume the role of executive chair of the board when Thompson retires. The changes are part of the company’s succession planning and board development to support future growth and shareholder confidence.
“I am so happy to know Kirk and Wayne will remain involved as advisors beyond their service as directors, and I am excited to congratulate John and Shelley on their new leadership roles,” said Johnelle Hunt, co-founder of the Lowell, Arkansas-based company. “I care deeply about the long-term success of the company, and these changes give me great confidence in the company’s ability to continue to prosper well into the future.”
Simpson’s career at J.B. Hunt spans nearly 30 years, serving in a wide range of executive leadership roles focused on delivering the company’s vision to create the most efficient transportation network in North America, according to a news release.
“J.B. Hunt is recognized as a leader in the transportation industry,” Simpson said. “We’re known for our highly talented and experienced people, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to work alongside the very best.”
Related: J.B. Hunt Appoints Shelley Simpson as President
