C.H. Robinson Taking a Cautious Approach to Appointing a New CEO

Barber seems odds-on choice, but nothing has happened yet

CH Robinson has yet to move on hiring a new CEO (Photo: C.H. Robinson)

Uncertainty Surrounding C.H. Robinson's CEO Selection

A few weeks ago, headlines suggested C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. had chosen Jim Barber, former COO of UPS Inc., as its next CEO. However, as March comes to a close, the board's decision remains unclear, and there are questions about whether Barber is the right choice for the nation's largest freight broker.

Barber's Candidacy and Industry Opinions

Nothing has been announced, and Barber's candidacy status remains uncertain. However, he is still considered the top candidate to succeed Bob Biesterfeld, who was removed by the board earlier this year. An industry executive criticized the board and its search committee for being "too slow and indecisive" in selecting Barber.

Barber's Expertise and Comparisons

Barber, who joined Robinson's board in December 2022, has extensive knowledge of 3PLs' value to carrier partners and shipper customers. Like UPS CEO Carol B. Tomé, Barber has experience bridging shipper-3PL-carrier relationships from his 37 years at UPS.

Alternative Theories and Candidates

Logistics consultant Brittain Ladd finds it strange that Robinson hasn't officially chosen Barber, speculating that the company may have received pushback from investors seeking a more technologically progressive CEO. Ladd proposed several alternatives, including acquiring freight forwarder Flexport, merging with Danish shipping and logistics giant DSV, or hiring Lior Ron, Uber Freight's CEO (NYSE: UBER).

Board's Strategy and Future Challenges

The board may be content with its current strategy without urgently seeking a new CEO. A Robinson spokeswoman stated that there is no new information to share at this time. The new CEO will have to contend with activist investor Ancora Advisors, which extended a standstill agreement in January, placing two representatives on Robinson's board with the promise not to seek changes at the company for at least another year.

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