It is a return to the company for Stephenson, who was head of operations there until 2012. He has also held senior roles at major truck operators, including, most recently, director of fleet at G4S and director of fleet at Bidvest Logistics.
Stephenson is also active in the transport sector: he was president of the Society of Operations Engineers (IRTE’s parent organisation) until July 2017 and is a liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Carmen.
Ryder says the new post is in response to the increasing importance that engineering and innovation will play in the own-account and logistics sector, with Ryder’s vice president David Hunt saying that Stephenson brings “a wealth of operational fleet experience that can only enhance our service to our customers as the industry goes through substantial technological changes”.
Stephenson adds: “I’m delighted to be re-joining Ryder at such an exciting and challenging time for transport and logistics. I look forward to leading Ryder’s dialogue with our OEM partners and engaging with our customers on emerging technology and environmentally friendly transport solutions.”