Ryder System CEO Robert Sanchez Credits Time Management and Family Support for Success

Robert Sanchez, the CEO of Ryder System, has spent over three decades at the trucking and logistics company, with more than a dozen years as its chief executive and chairman of the board. The Miami-based company operates a fleet of 250,000 commercial trucks and generates billions in revenue annually. Sanchez's journey at Ryder began in 1993, and he has since climbed the ranks, holding various leadership positions before becoming CEO in 2013.

Sanchez attributes his success to two key practices: maintaining a rigorous workout routine and being meticulous about time management. He starts his day with weight training while watching financial news, a habit he has maintained since high school. His time management skills, however, were not always as refined. In the early days of his career, Sanchez relied on sticky notes to keep track of his tasks and appointments. His boss recognized the need for improvement and sent him to a one-day time management class led by a leadership-training group.

The class taught Sanchez the importance of keeping a calendar and daily to-do lists, a simple yet effective method that transformed his approach to work. This newfound organization allowed him to balance his professional responsibilities with his personal life, ensuring he could be present for his family. Sanchez has a wife and three adult sons, and he made it a priority to attend their sporting events, even when his schedule was demanding.

Sanchez's commitment to his family extended to coaching one of his son's baseball teams. He scheduled practices on Friday nights, knowing he could make it to the field after flying home from work. There were times when his flights were delayed, and he would change into his coaching gear in the car, a testament to his dedication. Sanchez also acknowledged the sacrifices he made, such as not playing golf until his youngest son left for college, to prioritize his family and work.

Sanchez's wife, Melly, has been a constant source of support and humility. She keeps him grounded, reminding him that his success at work is mirrored at home. Their 33-year marriage has been crucial to Sanchez's achievements, providing him with the stability and support needed to focus on his career. Sanchez's ability to balance work and family life has been a significant factor in his success, allowing him to be intentional about his time and commitments.

Sanchez's story highlights the importance of time management and family support in achieving professional success. His journey from relying on sticky notes to becoming a meticulous planner has been instrumental in his rise to the top of Ryder System. Sanchez's dedication to his family and his ability to balance his responsibilities have made him a respected leader in the industry.