JOH, a leading independent food brokerage based in Billerica, MA, announced two leadership changes that will take effect with the start of 2025.

John Saidnawey, currently chairman and CEO, will become executive chairman of the board, and Matt O’Hare, currently president and chief operating officer, has been promoted to CEO.

The company said these changes mark the next exciting chapter in JOH’s history as it continues to chart a path for growth in the dynamic and evolving CPG industry.

O’Hare will become just the fourth CEO in JOH’s 68 years in business.

Saidnawey began his career at JOH in 1982 as a retail merchandiser. He held various positions within the company, including account executive, account manager and executive vice president of health, beauty and wellness before being promoted to president and COO in 2010 and then to chairman and CEO in 2017.

Working closely with Chip and Matt O’Hare, Saidnawey helped lead expansion to Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Grand Rapids, Minneapolis, Chicago and the north central region.

Other highlights include working closely with the OSMG Partners to establish a national footprint for JOH. Saidnawey also led the creation of Kids 360, JOH’s charity, which has donated over $750,000 to children’s charities across the country.

Above all, Saidnawey ensured that preserving the unique culture that defines JOH remained a top priority. In his new role as executive chairman, he will provide oversight, strategic guidance and board leadership, while actively supporting O’Hare, as well as continuing to build the OSMG companies.

“For 68 years, JOH has proudly honored the legacy of our founder, Harry O’Hare, as a company dedicated to growing our clients' and customers' businesses while taking great care of our associates,” said Saidnawey. “It is, and will always remain, an honor and a privilege to work alongside Chip, Matt and the most talented associates in the business.

“Matt and our leadership team are well positioned to lead our company and continue to deliver excellence in service across all areas,” Saidnawey continued. “The foundation of JOH’s culture is our people and our commitment to selling right. I am confident in Matt’s ability to lead JOH into a bright future. I am looking forward to my new role and fully supporting Matt and our incredible teams."

O’Hare grew up in the business and has had many responsibilities at JOH since joining full-time in 2011. Since then, he has held the positions of account executive, director of frozen and dairy, senior vice president of corporate development and, for the last seven years, president and COO.

As CEO, O’Hare will steer the company's overarching direction, spearhead strategic initiatives, and foster growth. Throughout his career, he has proven himself as a dynamic, passionate and inspiring leader, and has held board leadership positions with the National Frozen & Refrigerated Association, Massachusetts Food Association, New England Food Foundation, Frozen and Refrigerated Association of the Northeast, and NextUp New England.

“I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to help lead and serve our wonderful company toward many more years of growth for our clients and customers,” said O’Hare. “I would like to thank my father, Chip, for always being there for me both personally and professionally; John, for his steadfast mentorship over the years; and our leadership team for their continuous support. We will continue to be guided by our unwavering mission: To foster growth for those we serve while prioritizing the well-being and success of our incredible JOH associates.”