This C suite move follows news that Robert Biesterfeld will take the reins as CEO in May.
C.H. Robinson announced Thursday that Chief Financial Officer Andrew Clarke “will be departing from his position” at the end of the month.
The company said it will be looking at both internal and external candidates during its formal search for a replacement.
“Over the last four years, Andy played a key role as part of our executive leadership team as we increased our total revenues by over $3 billion and expanded our global geographic and service line footprint,” said John Wiehoff, chairman and chief executive officer in Thursday’s press release. “Andy has also built a highly competent finance organization during his tenure as CFO. On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to thank Andy for his many contributions to C.H. Robinson and wish him continued future success.”
Wiehoff himself is stepping down as CEO, although he will retain his role as chairman. C.H. Robinson announced late last month that Chief Operating Officer Robert Biesterfeld would take the reins as CEO effective May 9.
Biesterfeld was named COO in March 2018. A 20-year company veteran, Biesterfeld previously was C.H. Robinson’s president for North America surface transportation. He also served as vice president of truckload and vice president of Robinson Fresh. Wiehoff has served as the CEO for the past 17 years.
Clarke joined C.H. Robinson as CFO in June 2015. He previously served as president and CEO of Panther Expedited Services and as CFO of Forward Air.
Thursday’s announcement did not give a reason for Clarke’s departure. In the press release, Clarke is quoted as saying, “I appreciate having had the opportunity to work at C.H. Robinson. I am proud to have been a member of the team that created significant value for customers, carriers, employees and shareholders, including the return of nearly $2 billion of capital over the last four years, and wish the company and its employees continued success in the future.”
Clarke is scheduled to deliver a keynote address May 6 during FreightWaves’ Transparency19 conference in Atlanta.
