A logistics and supply chain expert, Burnett joins the RHA from Samworth Brothers where he was managing director of Samworth Brothers Distribution; servicing the needs of its 14 bakeries and a number of external customers. During his career he has been responsible for the transport, warehousing and distribution strategies for some of the most prestigious and demanding manufacturing and retail businesses, including HJ Heinz, GSK, Panasonic and adidas. At Wincanton, he was responsible for driving the transformational change programme aligned to the transport strategy designed by him and approved by the Board.
RHA national chairman Peter Barber commented: ‘Richard’s experience in the road transport and logistics industry is impressive. He has worked in key senior roles at Wincanton, Hays and TDG. He understands the industry and the real life commercial challenges faced by each and every one of our members and will ensure that the RHA is in a position to deliver reliable and appropriate support. With his strong strategic, operational, commercial and financial expertise Richard will take the RHA forward into a new and exciting era.’
Burnett said: ‘It’s an honour to represent the road haulage industry and to help shape road transport of the future. I’m looking forward to better understanding the priorities of the RHA’s members, how those needs are being met and what we can do to improve our services and performance. While I am not an “association” man, I do believe my industry experience is what the RHA needs at this stage of its evolution. My approach is consultative and the things that are important to me are: honesty, integrity, teamwork and delivery.’
