JOH, a major independent regional broker based in Billerica, Massachusetts, has announced a significant reorganization of its corporate leadership.
Effective Sept. 1, Chip O’Hare will take on chairman emeritus status; John Saidnawey will be promoted to chairman and CEO; and Matt O’Hare, Chip’s son, will become president and COO.
JOH was founded in 1956 by Harry O’Hare Sr., Chip’s father, and is a strong regional food broker with 16 offices and strategic partnerships across the U.S. JOH has more than 500 employees and represents 400-plus clients.
“I am very proud of John Saidnawey and his contribution to the success of our company,” said Chip O’Hare. “We all appreciate his steadfast dedication to JOH over the last 35 years and for his efforts in the role of president and COO for the past seven. As he steps into his well-deserved role as chairman of the board and CEO, I know we can continue to expect great commitment, enthusiasm and leadership from him.”
Saidnawey’s role will include general management, strategic planning, finance and client and customer relations, Chip added.
In his new role at JOH, Matt will be responsible for overseeing all JOH operating divisions including retail operations, category management, marketing, technology, personnel and other business operations. He is a graduate of the Middlesex School, Harvard College and Stanford Business School. He joined JOH in 2011 and has worked as an account executive, director of frozen & dairy and most recently as SVP of corporate development.
In addition, Matt is a third-generation member of the board of directors of the New England Food Foundation, the primary charity of the New England food industry that was founded by Harry O’Hare in 1961.
“I am proud and excited to have Matt as the operating leader of our fast-growing company,” Chip said.
Chip has 42 years of experience in the food industry. As chairman emeritus, he will be available to assist Matt and John on an as-needed basis.
“Thank you to all JOH associates for your hard work and dedication during the years of my tenure as the leader of the company,” Chip said. “Our success is a reflection of your diligence and commitment to our values as a family business in the ever changing food industry. We’ve been through a great deal together and I am very grateful.”
