U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc., announced on Friday that the company's chief financial officer Ray Harlin has decided to retire. Mr. Harlin's decision to retire will bring to a close a career at U.S. Xpress of nearly 20 years of continuous service to the company. Between now and his official retirement date of Dec. 31, Mr. Harlin will assist with transitioning his responsibilities and thereafter, will remain with U.S. Xpress as a consultant.
“Ray has been an integral part of our company and key member of the executive management team since 1997. Ray joined U.S. Xpress as its chief financial officer when the company was running a quarter of the trucks we run today. He helped us navigate affairs associated with being a public company, along with crafting and leading us through several transactions, including the company’s move from a public company to a private company in 2007. On a more personal level, Ray has been a mentor and friend to many of us through the years and we will miss his wisdom and humor going forward,” said Max Fuller, chief executive officer and co-founder of U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc. in an announcement to employees.
Eric Peterson will assume the role of chief financial officer effective immediately. Mr. Peterson previously served under Mr. Harlin’s advisory as senior vice president of accounting and finance for U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.
"Eric is a very strong and experienced executive who has successfully led several strategic initiatives. As a result of Eric’s incredible financial and business acumen, I believe he will be a driving force in continuing to move our company forward," said Mr. Fuller.
Additionally, effective immediately, and consistent with his job responsibilities over the last few years as chief operating officer, Eric Fuller has been named president and chief operating officer of U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.
As chief executive officer and chairman, Max Fuller will continue to lead this new generation of executives, which includes Lisa Pate, chief administrative officer and daughter of the late Pat Quinn, U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc. co-founder.
Commenting on the company leadership, Max Fuller said, “When Pat Quinn and I founded this company, we envisioned our family members playing an integral part in the growth of the company. This is an ever-changing industry and it has always been our business strategy to grow and develop with the times with the right team in place to support the infrastructure. I look forward to continuing to lead this group of executives. I feel confident that we are poised for enormous success with this next generation of leaders.”