U.S. Xpress, now part of Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, has new leadership.
Following Knight-Swift’s acquisition of the carrier, some long-term U.S. Xpress executives will remain to lead the company alongside Knight-Swift, according to a U.S. Xpress spokesperson.
As part of that new leadership structure, longtime U.S. Xpress exec Justin Harness has shifted from his former role of president of highway services to EVP of operations.
Harness started with the company in 2002 and is now responsible for U.S. Xpress’ operations, including oversight of the company’s dedicated fleet, OTR division and brokerage operations, according to a company website.
Additionally, former Chief People Officer Amanda Thompson is now the EVP of people and safety at U.S. Xpress. Thompson is overseeing staffing and safety operations teams and is responsible for safety, driver recruiting, onboarding, strategic talent acquisition, organization design, workforce planning, compliance, total rewards, talent development and communications functions.
Meanwhile, in a previously announced move for Knight-Swift, Tim Harrington took over the role of U.S. Xpress president from Eric Fuller, and Joshua Smith became CFO.
Fuller and his father, Max Fuller, have long been the face of the Tennessee-based carrier. Max Fuller co-founded the company in 1985, and it began transportation business operations in 1986.
Knight-Swift previously stated that the Fullers and former CFO Eric Peterson would transition out of their roles at the closing of the deal, while remaining available to ensure a smooth transition.
“U.S. Xpress will continue as a separate brand and operation to minimize disruptions for the driving associates, shop and office employees, and customers,” Knight-Swift said in the March acquisition announcement. “At the same time, cross-functional teams made up of leaders from Knight, Swift, and U.S. Xpress will work together to leverage economies of scale, freight network efficiencies and best practices.”
