Leadership Transition at Ryder: John Diez Positioned to Lead Major Transportation Logistics Firm

Ryder System, Inc. ®, a prominent player in logistics and transportation, has formally unveiled its succession strategy, marking a significant leadership change within the organization. According to the board-approved plan, current President and Chief Operating Officer John Diez will step into the Chief Executive Officer position effective March 31, 2026, while robert sanchez will transition from his executive leadership role.

Executive Changes and Timeline

The restructuring reflects a carefully orchestrated transition designed to maintain operational continuity. Robert Sanchez, who has served as CEO since January 2013 and assumed the chairman role in May 2013, will shift to an executive chair position to facilitate the handover. Simultaneously, Diez has been elected to the board, solidifying his path to the top leadership position on the same effective date.

Diez’s Track Record and Experience

Diez brings extensive operational expertise to his new role, having assumed the president and COO position beginning January 1, 2025. In this capacity, he has overseen the company’s three core business divisions: Fleet Management Solutions (FMS), which handles vehicle leasing and maintenance; Supply Chain Solutions (SCS), managing end-to-end logistics operations; and Dedicated Transportation Solutions (DTS), specializing in customized freight services.

His career trajectory within Ryder demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the company’s financial and operational framework. Prior to his recent appointment, Diez served as executive vice president and chief financial officer, where he directed all financial strategy and management. His leadership extended to the fleet management division, where he spearheaded operational excellence and maintenance protocols, and the dedicated transportation business unit, where he drove substantial revenue expansion and enhanced profitability metrics.

Broader Career Context

Diez’s involvement with Ryder spans more than two decades, beginning in 2002. Before joining the company, he developed his analytical and auditing acumen through the audit division at KPMG LLP, providing a strong foundation in financial rigor and corporate governance standards that have informed his tenure at Ryder.

This transition represents a natural progression for the logistics and transportation sector, where operational expertise and financial acumen are paramount to sustaining competitive advantage.