Indian’s being anointed as the CEOs of world’s top blue riband companies is now becoming a habit. The likes of Satya Nadela, Sundar Pichai heading the world’s leading companies is something which has made all Indians proud. Now it’s the turn of Raj Subramaniam is set to become the new Chief Executive Officer of FedEx, according to an announcement by the US multinational. Subramanium would be replacing Frederick W Smith, chairman and CEO.
Interestingly, Subramaniam’s elevation to the top slot was long expected. Less than a month ago, the company named Smith’s son, Richard W. Smith, as the next head of its express division. The 77-year-old founder has been saying for at least two years that he’s nearing the end of his long tenure.
“As we look toward what’s next, I have a great sense of satisfaction that a leader of the calibre of Raj Subramaniam will take FedEx into a very successful future,” Smith said in a statement.
In his new role, Smith said he looks forward to focusing on Board governance as well as issues of global importance, including sustainability, innovation, and public policy. Smith had founded FedEx in 1971.
On his part, Subramanium gave credit to Frederick Smith. “Fred is a visionary leader and a legend of the business world. He founded one of the world’s greatest and most admired companies, and it is my honour and privilege to step into this role and build upon what he has created,” he said in a statement issued by FedEx.
FedEx is headquartered in Tennessee and employs around 600,000 employees globally.