United Road has ‘highest level of confidence’ in newly promoted CEO Kraft

United Road CEO Ryan Kraft. Photo courtesy of United Road.
United Road has promoted one of its own to lead it.
The company, which claims the title of North America’s largest provider of finished vehicle logistics, has named Ryan Kraft as its new CEO, citing his “dynamic vision and deep institutional knowledge.”
Kraft has been with United Road for more than 15 years, rising through the ranks with roles in information technology, project management and financial analysis. He most recently served as chief digital officer and chief operating officer.
“The board approved this promotion with the highest level of confidence,” immediate past chairman and CEO Mark Anderson said. “Ryan has consistently brought vision, integrity and an unwavering drive to deliver results. He understands our business, our customers and our culture as well as anyone. He is absolutely the right person to lead United Road into its next era.
“United Road has always prioritized intentional and strategic leadership transitions. Promoting Ryan from within reflects that commitment, and we are fortunate to have such a strong internal successor ready to lead.”
Under Kraft’s leadership, United Road said, the company has embraced innovation, including the development of the Haully platform, in-vehicle telematics and a real-time customer portal.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together at United Road and energized by the opportunities ahead,” Kraft said. “I am especially thankful to Mark for his steadfast leadership during some of the most challenging years in our company’s history. His example of thoughtful, servant leadership inspires me, and I will work every day to uphold that practice of leadership at United Road.”
Kraft began his career as a financial analyst for Ford Motor Company and later served as chief information officer for Wilbanks Energy Services in New Mexico.
United Road, based in Plymouth, Mich., said it transports some 4 million vehicles annually across the U.S. and Canada, serving more than 10,000 customers. The company has 1,200 employees, more than 700 independent contractors, and operates an integrated national network with 750 company-owned assets.