NCRR President, CEO Warren leaves role after 6 years

North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR) President and CEO Carl Warren is leaving the company after six years at its helm.

Warren helped guide the company through an important period of growth, focus and long-term positioning; he and the NCRR board agreed that now is the right time for a leadership transition, said NCRR officials in a press release.

"I’m proud of the results this team has delivered and the ways we have strengthened NCRR’s ability to support communities, businesses and infrastructure across North Carolina," Warren said. "It has been a privilege to lead an organization entrusted with one of the state’s most unique and enduring infrastructure assets, and I’m confident this team will continue delivering for North Carolina for years to come."

The board is working with consulting firm Korn Ferry to conduct a national search for NCRR's next president and CEO. Warren will continue working with the board and leadership team to support a smooth transition, they said. NCRR's executive leadership team will remain in place, with oversight from the board during the transition. Malcomb Coley will serve as a board liaison to the executive team until a president and CEO is named.

Under Warren's leadership, NCRR helped boost North Carolina's economic development by creating 12,262 new jobs and stimulating $40.4 million in direct investments. NCRR also secured $105.6 million in federal funding for passenger and freight-rail improvements. 

"Carl joined NCRR at an important point in the company’s evolution, and the board asked him to help sharpen the company’s priorities, strengthen its strategic direction and position NCRR for the future," said Steve Lerner, NCRR board chair. "He has done that work with dedication and care, and we are grateful for his leadership and the results achieved during his tenure. He leaves behind a talented team, a strong organization and important work underway across the state."

Prior to joining NCRR, Warren led CSX's industrial, port and commercial development across 23 states, two Canadian provinces and Mexico.