Family-owned third-party logistics provider (3PL) Saddle Creek Logistics Services is passing on the reins in its executive suite to a new CEO, following a previously announced succession plan.

The Lakeland, Fla.-based omnichannel supply chain solutions company said today that its chief operating officer (COO) Mark Cabrera has assumed the role of CEO effective immediately, succeeding Cliff Otto, who will retire at the end of July.

Saddle Creek has been planning the move since 2017, when it unveiled plans to promote Cabrera, who was then a senior vice president and chief financial officer, to COO and said he would rise to CEO within two years. Before joining the company in 2001, he had spent 15 years in financial roles for companies including Arthur Andersen LLP, GTE, National Insurance Services, and Reeves Steel Inc.

The former CEO, Otto, had also joined Saddle Creek in 2001, becoming president in 2007 and CEO in 2013. The company says that his tenure achieved significant growth, geographic expansion, and a broadened portfolio of services. Today, Saddle Creek provides variety of integrated logistics services, including omnichannel fulfillment, warehousing, and transportation, serving customers such as retailers, ecommerce companies, and manufacturers.

"I am honored to take the helm and build on the strong foundation Cliff has helped establish," Cabrera said in a release. "This is an exciting time to be in the logistics industry. I am eager to lead the company forward and embrace new opportunities - while keeping a firm foothold in the tradition of service excellence that company founder David Lyons established more than 50 years ago."

We're excited to announce that Mark Cabrera officially assumes the role of CEO today. Best wishes to Cliff Otto on his well-earned retirement. To read the full release click here. https://t.co/c4B2hA0eia pic.twitter.com/gJvheptmnO

— Saddle Creek Log. (@SaddleCreekLog) July 29, 2019