Billerica, Massachusetts-based JOH has shared two new executive leadership changes. Effective Jan. 1, John Saidnawey will become executive chairman of the board, and Matt O’Hare will serve as president and CEO.
These changes mark the next chapter in JOH’s history as it charts a path for growth in the CPG industry. O’Hare will become the fourth CEO in its 68 year history.
Saidnawey began his career at JOH in 1982 as a retail merchandiser. He held various positions within the company, including account executive, account manager and EVP of health, beauty and wellness before being promoted to president and COO in 2010, and then to chairman and CEO in 2017. He helped lead expansion to Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Grand Rapids, Minneapolis, Chicago and the North Central region. Other highlights include working closely with the OSMG Partners to establish its national footprint.
Saidnawey also led the creation of Kids 360, JOH’s charity, which has donated more than $750,000 to children’s charities across the country. As executive chairman, he will provide oversight, strategic guidance and board leadership, while actively supporting O’Hare as well as continuing to build the OSMG companies.
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“For 68 years, JOH has proudly honored the legacy of our founder, Harry O’Hare, as a company dedicated to growing our clients’ and customers’ businesses while taking great care of our associates,” Saidnawey said. “It is, and will always remain, an honor and a privilege to work alongside Chip [O’Hare], Matt and the most talented associates in the business.
“Matt and our leadership team are well positioned to lead our company and continue to deliver excellence in service across all areas. The foundation of JOH’s culture is our people and our commitment to selling right. I am confident in Matt’s ability to lead JOH into a bright future. I am looking forward to my new role and fully supporting Matt and our incredible teams.”
O’Hare grew up in the business and has had many responsibilities at JOH since joining full-time in 2011. Since then, he has held the positions of account executive, director of frozen and dairy, SVP of corporate development and, for the last seven years, president and COO.
As CEO, O’Hare will steer the company’s overarching direction, spearhead strategic initiatives and foster growth. He has held board leadership positions with the National Frozen & Refrigerated Association, Massachusetts Food Association, New England Food Foundation, Frozen and Refrigerated Association of the Northeast and NextUp New England.
“I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to help lead and serve our wonderful company toward many more years of growth for our clients and customers,” O’Hare said.
“I would like to thank my father, Chip, for always being there for me both personally and professionally; John, for his steadfast mentorship over the years; and our leadership team for their continuous support. We will continue to be guided by our unwavering mission – to foster growth for those we serve while prioritizing the well-being and success of our incredible JOH associates.”
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