VAN BUREN, AR — A large U.S.-based fleet that also does business in parts of Canada has named a new leader after its current CEO stepped down to battle lung cancer.

The board of directors of USA Truck on Thursday named Thomas Glaser to the postion after John Simone resigned. 

Glaser, a USA Truck director, had been serving as interim CEO since April 6 when Simone took a medical leave.

“Although it has been a very difficult decision, after consultation with my doctors, who continue to be optimistic about my recovery, I have concluded that I need to concentrate full time on my treatments and recovery,” Simone said. “I leave knowing that a solid foundation for profitability and growth has been put into place at USA Truck. Working with the company and its outstanding employees has been a very rewarding experience, and I look forward to watching USA Truck’s continuing progress.”

Glaser previously served as USA Truck’s interim chief operating officer from January 2013 to June 2013. He has more than 30 years of management experience in the trucking industry, including serving as president of two truckload carriers, Arnold Transportation Services from 2008 to 2010 and Celadon Trucking Services from 2001 to 2007, according to USA Truck.

“We fully support John’s decision to resign so he can devote his time and energy to improving his health,” said USA Chairman of the Board Robert A. Peiser. “During his tenure of more than two years, he reinvigorated the company, began the process of unlocking its earnings potential, and instilled every employee with the desire to maintain its forward momentum. All of us wish John continued success with his recovery.”

The Arkansas-based fleet is ranked number 50 on Transport Topics newspaper’s list of the 100 largest for hire carriers in the U.S. and Canada.