Ruan has promoted Jeff Harpole to executive vice president, the company announced January 23.
Ruan, a premier asset-based logistics provider based in Des Moines, IA, offers dedicated fleets, managed transportation, value-added warehousing, and brokerage support services to customers across North America.
Harpole, who joined Ruan in 2020, currently serves as Senior Vice President. He will succeed Dan Van Alstine as Chief Operating Officer when Van Alstine retires near the end of 2024. Van Alstine will serve on Ruan’s board of directors starting in 2025.
“Ruan has experienced historic success under the leadership of Dan Van Alstine, which is a significant achievement when considered over Ruan’s 92 years of serving customers across North America. These contributions will define Dan’s legacy at Ruan, as will his critical role in developing and preparing his successor, Jeff Harpole. In working closely with Jeff, I have been extremely impressed with his highly effective people and customer leadership skills. Even more importantly, Jeff demonstrates and continues the leadership culture that has enabled our success,” said Ruan Chief Executive Officer Benjamin McLean.
Harpole joined Ruan after serving as Vice President, Transportation for one of the country’s largest retailers. During his 12 years at the company, he managed an $800m transportation organization and worked closely with transportation providers in developing solutions, performance metrics, and pricing approaches. Harpole also helped launch the company’s private fleet, overseeing every aspect of the operation, including equipment investments, safety and compliance processes, driver relations, and maintenance operations. Harpole began his transportation career in 1990 with a top 10 for-hire carrier and logistics provider where he was continually promoted to advancing leadership roles. As his career progressed, he assumed direct accountability for the company’s largest strategic relationships. Harpole brings significant experience, both as a shipper and a logistics provider, and he will expand his positive impact on Ruan customers in his new role.
Ron Hanson, Ruan’s Chief Administrative Officer, will also retire in 2024, leaving his own special legacy in Ruan history.
“Ron and Dan have both been instrumental in establishing the cultural and operational framework for our success. Ron has become a key resource for skilled decision-making and thoughtful guidance to his colleagues on the Executive Leadership Team and beyond. Throughout his tenure, Ron’s astute strategic thinking has shaped our strategy and the delivery of our mission and values across the company. For 15 years, Ron has been my first stop to discuss any item of strategic and cultural significance at Ruan. He will be missed, but he too will be remembered for his legacy of preparing multiple highly capable leaders to guide our company into the future,” said McLean.