People Moves: Bart Beeks, GXO

GXO Logistics has appointed Bart Beeks to the newly-created role of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

He is set to lead GXO’s global operational excellence agenda through standardised global execution.

Bart joins from CEVA Logistics, where he rose from intern to Chief Operating Officer, managing operations in more than 170 countries.

GXO Logistics is the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, and has appointed Bart to lead it global operational excellence agenda through standardised global execution, reporting to CEO Patrick Kelleher.

Patrick said: “Execution and growth go hand in hand. Bart brings exceptional operational experience and proven leadership that will enable us to take the best of what we do so well and scale it consistently across our global network. 

“This appointment is a critical step in enhancing our operating model to drive increased productivity, efficiency and greater value for customers.”

From intern to COO

Bart joins GXO from CEVA Logistics, where he rose from intern to Chief Operating Officer, managing operations in more than 170 countries.

He brings extensive experience in operations, implementation excellence, international and site-level management and building high-performing teams. 

As COO of CEVA, he improved operating margin and revenue growth, while leading the integration of multiple acquisitions. Prior to his role as COO, he served as Executive Vice President in Benelux and Senior Vice President of Operational Excellence.

Before embarking on a career in logistics, Bart served as a Commanding Officer in the Dutch Special Forces. 

GXO said the appointment would support its strategy to capitalise on the rapid growth of e-commerce, automation and outsourcing.

New President appointed

Elsewhere, GXO has installed Michael Jacobs as its new President of the Americas and Asia Pacific. 

He joins from Ferguson Enterprises, where he served as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and led a large-scale transformation programme across the company’s operations.

Michael brings expertise across consumer packaged goods, retail and industrial sectors. At Ferguson, he drove improvements in service levels and productivity through the deployment of robotics and automation, while also enhancing demand forecasting and transit predictability using AI. 

Prior to this, Michael led global distribution and e-commerce fulfilment at Keurig, achieving best-in-class operational performance. Earlier in his career, he oversaw global supply chain operations at Toys “R” Us, managing activities across 33 countries.

Patrick adds: “The Americas and Asia Pacific region is brimming with growth potential, and now is the right time to reenergise our approach to match its dynamics and opportunities. 

“I am thrilled to welcome Michael to GXO. He brings a depth and breadth of experience across all aspects of supply chain and a proven track record of automation excellence and operational execution.”