Quad Cities trucking firm Dohrn has promoted Robert Howard to president and chief executive officer – marking the first CEO in the company’s history.
Mr. Howard had been the president and chief operating officer of Dohrn, a leading regional less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier based in west Rock Island.
In a news release, Dohrn said he brings more than two decades of leadership experience in the LTL and logistics industry. Over his past 10+ years with Dohrn, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening operational performance, advancing safety culture, and championing a people‑first leadership philosophy. His previous responsibilities included leading operational strategy and execution across Dohrn’s entire terminal network and workforce.
In a recent announcement on social media, Dohrn said “His experience, vision, and dedication continue to help move Dohrn forward.”
Mr. Howard holds a doctorate in educational leadership (Ed.D.) from the University of the Cumberlands, where his research focused on servant leadership and behavioral improvement in commercial driving environments. He also earned a Master of Science in management and an MBA from Indiana Institute of Technology, as well as a bachelor’s degree in economics and an associate’s degree in social science from Indiana University.
In addition to his academic and professional accomplishments, Mr. Howard serves on the American Transportation Research Institute’s (ATRI) Research Advisory Committee and is a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO).
As CEO, he will oversee all major strategic and operational functions, including safety, sales and marketing, operations, finance, and human resources, ensuring alignment with enterprise‑wide business goals and supporting the company’s continued growth, the company said.
About Dohrn
Dohrn provides premier LTL and warehouse services across the Midwest, operating a network of 25 terminals in 10 states.
Dohrn supports approximately 2,000 employees, including more than 400 based in Rock Island. Dohrn is proud to operate as the Best in the Midwest carrier, based in the Quad Cities where it maintains a longstanding presence and continues to invest in regional operations.
