Ryder's Sanchez to step down from top spot; Diez to take helm in March

Ryder System’s Chairman and CEO Robert E. Sanchez will retire on March 31, 2026, and will be succeeded by Ryder President and COO John Diez. Sanchez, who spent a dozen years as CEO, will become executive chair of Ryder’s board of directors.

Michael F. Hilton, lead independent director of Ryder’s board, noted Sanchez delivered "excellent results and record shareholder value," and that this succession has been "well planned." Diez has worked at Ryder for two decades.

Throughout his tenure as Chairman and CEO, Sanchez helped grow the company, derisk the business, improve returns, and grow its supply chain. He first joined the company as a sr. business system designer in 1993, going on to lead several departments of Ryder’s truck rental business before gaining his first VP position in 2000 as VP of asset planning and real estate. He became president of Global Fleet Management Solutions in 2010, and then president and COO in 2012.

“Serving Ryder for more than three decades has truly been an extraordinary experience. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside the most talented and dedicated professionals in our industry to deliver for our employees, customers, and shareholders,” Sanchez said. “I’ve worked with John for over two decades and his deep understanding of our business, sound judgment and strategic mindset uniquely positions him to lead the company.”

Diez became Ryder’s president and COO at the start of 2025. Throughout the year, he’s helped guide the company’s strategic direction and operational management. He previously served as executive vice president and chief financial officer, and before that, ran Ryder’s fleet management business, led fleet operations and maintenance, and served as president of Ryder’s transportation business unit.