Looking to solve one of its core operational challenges, Intelligent Global Pooling Systems (iGPS) has named Richard “Dick” DiStasio as the company’s CEO after a lengthy search to replace company founder Bob Moore. iGPS operates a large pool of all-plastic pallets and has come under fire after pallet availability problems caused it to lose some major customers.
DiStasio brings over 30 years of executive-level experience including having worked in logistics and distribution industries. That’s a good thing because improving logistics flows and decreasing dwell times and reducing leakage are some of the biggest issues facing iGPS. The other major hurdle is coming up with a new pallet design to address the decaBDE concern. The existing pallet design uses a controversial fire retardant that is being phased out in some states and has drawn criticism from environmental and public interest groups.
When Steve Marton took over as interim CEO earlier this year, it was widely speculated that he was only a stop gap solution and not the eventual full-time replacement for Moore, who is currently engaged in two lawsuits involving iGPS.
DiStasio has experience at leading manufacturing, distribution and service companies, with both domestic and international scope. Among his prior positions, DiStasio served as president, CEO and chairman of USF Corporation, formerly known as USFreightways Corporation, and CEO for Global Operations of Martin-Brower Company, the world’s largest distributor of products to McDonald’s Corporation. Prior to joining iGPS, DiStasio served as an operating advisor to Arbor Investments, a Chicago-based private equity firm.
The new CEO faces significant obstacles. From a controversial pallet retardant to pallet availability problems to upset customers, it will take more than just a new leader to position iGPS back on the growth path. One of the major concerns will be finding a way to make its financial model work by either raising prices or improving logistics flows and dwell times.
Over the last few years, iGPS has made quite a splash in the logistics world. A year ago, it seemed on top of the world as it had stolen some key accounts from CHEP. Now, the company has lost its momentum amid real-world challenges. Everyone is looking to see if new leadership can right some of these problems and help iGPS get back on track.
