SALT LAKE CITY — Jeff Roberts has become CEO of Savage Cos., the multifaceted supply-chain company whose businesses include short line railroads and other rail operations and logistics.
Roberts becomes just the fourth CEO in the history of the privately held company established in 1946. He replaces Kirk Aubry, who announced plans to retire in June 2024; at that time, Roberts was selected as Aubry’s successor and became company president in addition to his prior role as chief operating officer.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead such an amazing group of people, working together to provide world-class service for customers across all of our businesses,” Roberts said in a press release. “We’ll continue building relationships and growing the company according to the Vision and Legacy established by our founders.”
Roberts joined Savage in 2016; as chief financial officer, he oversaw mergers and acquisitions that fueled the company’s growth. Previously, he was chief financial officer at Maxum Enterprises, a chemicals, petroleum, and lubricants company partially owned by Pilot Flying J.
“Jeff is the right person to lead Savage into the future, with his appreciation for the culture that has made the company successful over generations, passion for finding innovative solutions, and strong commitment to safety and continuous improvement,” said Don Stebbins, Savage board chairman.
Savage operates the Savage Bingham & Garfield Railroad and the coming Savage Tooele Railroad, both in Utah. Among its other rail services are plant switching; transloading; car inspection, repair, and storage; and infrastructure design and construction. It is also involved in trucking and marine operations, industrial engineering and construction, and facility operation and maintenance. More about the company is available at its website.
