CHICAGO, August 21, 2026 — Sysco is revamping its board of directors specifically to facilitate the distribution giant’s adoption of AI.
After what the company termed a “robust” search, Sysco is adding two directors with what it described as deep experience in technology. The move expands the size of its board to 13 members, effective Sept. 1.
One of the new seats will be filled by Tom Ondrof, the former EVP and CFO of Aramark and a veteran of high-level positions at Performance Food Group and Compass Group.
The other newcomer is Jason Murray, co-founder and CEO of the Shipium Corp., a shipping logistics concern. He formerly served for 19 years in a variety of positions at Amazon, and played a key role in developing and deploying the e-retailer’s supply chain technology, according to Sysco.
“Together, they will strengthen our Board as we execute against our long-term growth and profitability objectives," commented Sysco CEO Kevin Hourican.
In addition to adding the directors, Sysco is revising its board’s Technology Committee into the Artificial Intelligence Transformation & Technology Committee. The group has already commenced monthly meetings to facilitate the distributor’s further adoption of AI, the company said.
Sysco has informed it shareholders that it intends to cut costs by $100 million in large part by using AI to bolster efficiencies.
In announcing the appointment of new directors, the company noted that the additions have the blessing of longtime shareholder and AI advocate D.E. Shaw Group.
“The firm has supported Sysco's efforts to accelerate AI-driven transformation by facilitating introductions to leading technology providers, industry experts, and highly qualified director candidates,” Sysco said in announcing the changes to its board.
It added that D.E. Shaw is expected to participate in raising capital for Sysco’s pending acquisition of Restaurant Depot’s parent company, Jetro Restaurant Depot, for about $29 billion.
The deal will instantly make Sysco, the foodservice industry’s largest broadline distributor, also the largest player in the business’ cash-and-carry supply sector.