Former Panther CEO Invests in V3 Transportation
![craig-amato.jpg Image](/sites/default/files/images/articles/craig-amato.jpg)
Craig Amato, founder and former CEO of expedited carrier Panther II Transportation, has joined V3 Transportation as senior advisor and investor, company officials announced Nov. 3.
Although the amount of Amato’s investment was not disclosed, he is expected to help secure a new credit facility for Brunswick, Ohio-based V3 and work with management to grow the company’s business, which was launched in early 2013.
“V3 has established a diverse industry base, and we are well-positioned to explore and expand within new segments of the market,” said Bob Poulos, CEO of V3 and a former sales executive at Panther and U.S. Xpress Inc.
John Sliter, president and chief operating officer of V3 and a former COO at Panther, said Amato’s experience and perspective on the market for expedited transportation “will allow the company to pursue opportunities that will foster the company’s growth.”
“Bob and I have known Craig for many years ,and we are looking forward to working with him again as we seek out targeted opportunities for expansion,” Sliter said in a statement.
Amato, who started Panther II Transportation in 1992 and served as CEO for 16 years, said he is looking forward to his new role at V3. “I see great things ahead for V3,” he said.
The company Amato founded changed its name to Panther Expedited Services and was acquired in 2012 by what is now ArcBest Corp.