FedEx announces leadership changes ahead of freight division spin-off

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FedEx announces leadership changes ahead of freight division spin-off

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John A. Smith FedEx Express Leadership President and Chief Executive Officer U.S. & Canada Ground Operations | FedEx

By Sky Industry News

May 19, 2025

FedEx Corp. has announced key leadership appointments as it advances the separation of its less-than-truckload (LTL) freight division. John A. Smith, currently chief operating officer for U.S. and Canada at Federal Express, will become president and CEO of FedEx Freight. R. Brad Martin, vice chairman of the FedEx Corp. board of directors, will serve as chairman of the board for FedEx Freight. These roles will take effect following the completion of the spin-off from FedEx Corp., expected by June 2026.

Raj Subramaniam, president and CEO of FedEx Corp., stated, “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.” He expressed confidence in their ability to lead this new chapter for FedEx Freight.

Smith will maintain his current responsibilities until the separation is finalized. His career spans over 30 years in the industry, including 25 years with FedEx Freight and its predecessor companies. Between 2018 and 2021, he led significant growth in revenue and operating income while managing pandemic-related challenges.

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Martin is also chairing the FedEx Corp.'s Audit and Finance Committee and played a role in deciding on the separation strategy for FedEx Freight. He is expected to remain on the board of directors for FedEx Corp., even as he takes on his new role with FedEx Freight.

Additionally, Tom Connolly has been appointed vice president of LTL Sales at FedEx Freight. With over three decades in the industry, Connolly is tasked with expanding the company's dedicated LTL salesforce.

FedEx Corp., known for its comprehensive portfolio covering transportation, e-commerce, and business services worldwide, aims to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040.

The company notes that forward-looking statements regarding timing or outcomes related to this separation are subject to risks and uncertainties that could affect actual results.