From a simple one-man trucking outfit established in 1920 to a burgeoning, nationally recognized company, C.R. England has seen a lot of changes over the years. But one constant has been strong leadership.
The Salt Lake City-based company is a leading provider of global transportation. With more than 7,000 employees, drivers and independent contractors, C.R. England’s major customers include Hershey, Nestle, Walmart and Kraft. The company was founded 92 years ago by Chester England. Today, his grandson Dan England stands as the company’s chairman of the board.
“I enjoy the fact I represent the third generation of a business that started with my grandpa,” England says. “I work with my three brothers, and we have a wonderful relationship with each other.”
England was elected chairman of the board in 2005 after spending the previous 17 years as CEO. Prior to becoming CEO, he was general manager for six years. Under his leadership, the company has seen tremendous progress and prosperity.
“It’s satisfying to see growth,” he says. “I want to make this a place where people can succeed and thrive. Seven thousand people depend on us to make a living.”
Overseeing a large, fast-paced organization has its challenges, but England expresses confidence in his management team. He’s also a devoted believer in setting and achieving realistic, measurable goals.
“You need well-defined goals,” he says. “You need good strategic plans and the right people. Hopefully they’re resourceful and aggressive. We hold them accountable. Some of our greatest success is because of the accountability systems we have.”
To help foster a culture of responsibility, England ensures management establishes goals with all employees. There are also “scorecards” given to employees, and annual performance reviews are held to review whether objectives were met.
“We praise employees when they’ve done great and help them when improvements are needed,” England says.
In addition to his critical role as company chairman, England currently serves as chairman of the American Trucking Association. In fact, England is presently focusing the majority of his efforts in this endeavor.
Among his responsibilities at the ATA are speaking to members of state trucking agencies across the country and lobbying on issues of safety and productivity for truckers and trucking companies.
“My biggest responsibility is that of advocacy on behalf of trucking organizations,” he says. “I’m always alert to any issues affecting our industry.”
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