FedEx Unveils Executive Leadership for Standalone FedEx Freight Company
FedEx Corp. today announced key leadership appointments that will guide its less-than-truckload (LTL) business, FedEx Freight, as it transitions into a standalone, publicly traded company. The strategic move, part of FedEx’s broader DRIVE transformation initiative, marks a significant milestone in the company’s multi-year plan to enhance operational efficiency, unlock shareholder value, and streamline its portfolio of businesses.
The company confirmed that John A. Smith, currently Chief Operating Officer of U.S. and Canada operations at Federal Express, will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of the independent FedEx Freight company. Additionally, R. Brad Martin, Vice Chairman of the FedEx Corp. Board of Directors, will serve as Chairman of the Board of the newly independent organization. Both appointments will become effective upon the completion of the planned spin-off, which remains on track for completion by June 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals and final Board authorization.
“I cannot think of two individuals with more knowledge of, or commitment to, the long-term success of the FedEx Freight business than John Smith and Brad Martin,” said Raj Subramaniam, President and CEO of FedEx Corp. “Together, they bring unmatched leadership, vision, and expertise to this critical next chapter for the LTL segment, and I am confident in their ability to drive long-term value for customers, employees, and shareholders alike.”
Strategic Rationale for the Separation
The decision to separate FedEx Freight into an independent, publicly traded entity was announced in 2024 following an extensive strategic review led by FedEx leadership and its Board of Directors. The move is aimed at enhancing the strategic and operational focus of each business, enabling FedEx Corp. and the standalone FedEx Freight to pursue tailored growth strategies, allocate capital more efficiently, and unlock new opportunities in their respective markets.
FedEx Freight is the largest LTL carrier in the United States by revenue, with a strong reputation for reliability, speed, and safety. As a standalone business, FedEx Freight will be better positioned to adapt quickly to evolving market conditions, explore innovation in the freight sector, and pursue strategic partnerships or expansion opportunities that may not have been feasible under the FedEx Corp. umbrella.
John A. Smith: A Seasoned Leader with Deep Freight Expertise
John Smith brings more than three decades of experience in the transportation and logistics sector, including 25 years within the FedEx Freight organization and its predecessor companies. Known for his operational acumen and strategic leadership, Smith played a pivotal role during his tenure as President and CEO of FedEx Freight from 2018 to 2021. Under his leadership, the division achieved significant gains in both revenue and operating income while navigating through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In his current role as COO of U.S. and Canada operations for Federal Express, Smith is responsible for the oversight of FedEx Freight, as well as the U.S. and Canadian ground operations of FedEx Express. His deep familiarity with the inner workings of the LTL business, along with his cross-functional experience across FedEx Corp., uniquely positions him to lead the newly independent FedEx Freight with vision and continuity.
As CEO of the standalone company, Smith will oversee all aspects of FedEx Freight’s operations, growth strategy, technology modernization, and customer service initiatives. His mandate will include building on the company’s strong foundation while steering it toward new markets and digital innovation.
“I am honored and excited to lead FedEx Freight as it enters a new era as an independent company,” said Smith. “Our team has a long-standing commitment to safety, service, and excellence, and I look forward to continuing that legacy while exploring new ways to serve our customers and create long-term value for stakeholders.”
R. Brad Martin to Serve as Chairman of the Board
Supporting Smith in the leadership transition will be R. Brad Martin, a respected FedEx board member and seasoned business leader. Martin currently chairs the Audit and Finance Committee of the FedEx Corp. Board and led the strategic evaluation process that ultimately resulted in the decision to separate FedEx Freight. His extensive corporate governance experience and long-standing involvement with FedEx make him well-suited to guide the independent board of directors for the new company.
Martin is expected to remain on the FedEx Corp. Board of Directors while simultaneously serving as Chairman of the Board of FedEx Freight, ensuring a strong alignment between the two entities during and after the transition.
“FedEx Freight is a strong business with a proud heritage and a clear future,” said Martin. “I look forward to working closely with John and the leadership team to establish a board and governance structure that supports FedEx Freight’s independence and positions the company for long-term success.”
Additional Leadership Announcements
In a move to further strengthen the company’s commercial capabilities ahead of the spin-off, FedEx also recently appointed Tom Connolly as Vice President of LTL Sales. With over 30 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, Connolly is tasked with expanding the dedicated salesforce and reinforcing the company’s relationships with key enterprise customers across North America.
Connolly’s appointment underscores FedEx Freight’s emphasis on commercial growth, customer centricity, and market competitiveness as it approaches the separation date. His leadership is expected to enhance FedEx Freight’s go-to-market strategy, deepen customer engagement, and drive revenue growth across a range of sectors including manufacturing, retail, and industrial logistics.
Operational Readiness and Spin-Off Progress
FedEx has committed to ensuring a seamless transition for employees, customers, and partners as it moves forward with the spin-off. Preparatory work is underway to stand up FedEx Freight as an independent company with robust operational, financial, and governance systems in place. This includes establishing IT systems, financial reporting mechanisms, HR infrastructure, and a standalone corporate culture that reflects FedEx Freight’s values and strategic goals.
The company reaffirmed that plans for the spin-off are on schedule, with a target completion date by the end of fiscal year 2026. FedEx Freight will be headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, and is expected to be listed on a major U.S. stock exchange upon completion of the separation.
As part of the spin-off process, additional executive appointments, board members, and organizational updates are expected to be announced in the coming months.
About FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight is the leading provider of less-than-truckload (LTL) services in the United States, offering reliable, fast, and cost-effective transportation solutions for businesses of all sizes. With a network of more than 370 service centers, a modern fleet, and a team of over 45,000 employees, FedEx Freight is committed to delivering superior service, safety, and value across North America. The business has been a core part of the FedEx portfolio since its founding in 2001.