Penkar named as new board member at USA Truck

Rajan Penkar has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Van Buren-based USA Truck. His term expires in 2023, and he replaces Thomas Glaser who did not seek re-election to the board.

Glaser joined the company in July 2015 as president and CEO following the sudden departure of John Simone.

“On behalf of the entire Board, I would like to express our appreciation to Tom for all of his contributions to the Company and the Board over the past seven years including serving as the Company’s President and CEO from 2014-2015. We are fortunate to have worked with Tom and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” noted USA Truck Board Chairman Alex Greene.

Since 2014, Penkar has served as president and founder of Supply Chain Advisory Services, LLC, which provides supply chain design and optimization services to retailers. From 2011 to 2014, Penkar was senior vice president and president, supply chain for Sears Holding Corp. From 1987 to 2011, Penkar held various positions of increasing responsibility with United Parcel Service, Inc., most recently serving as president, UPS Customer Solutions.

He holds a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. Penkar is the recipient of 14 patents in robotics, automation, and supply chain processes.

“Raj’s experience in and leading logistics and supply-chain companies from both the shipper and carrier side brings a unique perspective to the Company. In addition, his development and use of technology to solve complex supply chain problems will further drive USA Truck’s operational improvement,” Greene said.